Pep Guardiola is now dealing with a significant injury crisis in preparation for Manchester City’s highly anticipated match against Arsenal.
The reigning champions will host their Premier League counterparts, Arsenal, at the Etihad Stadium this weekend. This highly anticipated match has the potential to significantly impact the outcome of the title race. City, meanwhile, may potentially be missing seven key players, including Kevin De Bruyne, whose physical condition is uncertain.
City may potentially be missing Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji due to injuries sustained while on international duty. This would pose significant challenges for Guardiola in terms of defensive options, as three key members of his backline would be absent.
De Bruyne would probably be the most significant absence, but Jack Grealish and Matheus Nunes are also in a fight against time to be fit for the encounter at the Etihad. Ederson is a potential absentee since the Brazilian goalkeeper was substituted during the draw against Liverpool a few weeks ago.
Nunes, who has predominantly served as a substitute player since his transfer from Wolves in the summer, had a foot ailment and was subsequently removed from the Portuguese team during the last international break. De Bruyne has been experiencing a groin problem, but he successfully participated in a training session with City’s Under-23s on Tuesday. If he is not fully recovered, there is a possibility that he will be named as a substitute.
Manchester City has a formidable recent track record versus Arsenal, particularly while playing at their home stadium. However, the absence of numerous important players will undoubtedly challenge their available resources against the team currently leading the league. Arsenal triumphed with a 1-0 victory over the reigning champions earlier this season in the northern part of London.
Guardiola’s team is facing a high frequency of games, which amplifies their concerns about injuries. Between now and April 20, they have a total of seven matches. Four of these matches will be in the Premier League, while the remaining three will consist of a two-legged Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid and an FA Cup semi-final versus Chelsea.
