Pep Guardiola has conceded he should have rotated his Manchester City squad more frequently, a realisation that comes amid a deepening defensive injury crisis that threatens their Premier League title ambitions.
Defensive Duo Sidelined in Title Race Blow
Scans have confirmed a severe hamstring injury for vice-captain Ruben Dias, who is now expected to be absent for up to six weeks. The Portuguese defender sustained the problem during City's recent 1-1 draw with Chelsea, a match that also saw fellow centre-back Josko Gvardiol suffer a broken right leg.
This double blow leaves Guardiola with a critically depleted backline. The only senior central defenders currently available are Nathan Ake, whose fitness requires careful management, and Abdukodir Khusanov, who has not started a Premier League game since September.
Stones' Future in Doubt as Guardiola Seeks Solutions
The situation is compounded by ongoing uncertainty surrounding John Stones. Guardiola admitted he has 'no idea' when the England international will return from his latest absence, offering the clearest indication yet that Stones could be leaving the club when his contract expires this summer.
'What happened in the last two seasons will define the decision at the end of the season,' Guardiola stated regarding Stones' future. He emphasised the player's need for a longer preparation period, noting, 'He didn't train with us... it's not like 'I'm ready, now I'll play'.'
With his defensive options evaporating, Guardiola revealed his regret at not utilising his squad more. 'I would like to have given Khusa more games instead of Ruben maybe,' he said. 'He's played a lot of games. But there is no Rodri there and I wanted characters on the pitch. Ruben is an incredible leader.'
Title Race Pressure Mounts on Injury-Hit Squad
The timing of these injuries is particularly damaging for City's pursuit of a consistent Arsenal side at the top of the table. Dias and Gvardiol had started 11 of the last 12 Premier League games, forming a crucial partnership. City now travel to face Brighton on Wednesday six points behind the leaders, having dropped four points in their last two matches.
Guardiola, who has generally selected a consistent starting eleven since October, now believes the club must get 'creative' this month to address the shortage. He ruled out recalling loanees Vitor Reis (Girona) or Manuel Akanji (Inter), but talked up the potential for midfielder Nico Gonzalez to fill in defensively.
Despite the crisis, the City boss backed his team's mentality. 'I don't have any doubts we have a good heart,' Guardiola asserted. 'We'll find some solutions. If you are tired, it is in your mind.' The club's need for defensive reinforcements is acute, with both Stones and Ake out of contract in the summer, signalling significant changes ahead for the champions' backline.
