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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has made it clear that players unable to cope with the club's relentless schedule may face an uncertain future at the Etihad. With several key players regularly sidelined due to injuries, Guardiola has hinted at potential departures in the upcoming transfer window.
The latest setback for City came in their 3-1 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid, where defender John Stones was forced off the pitch just eight minutes into the game with a thigh problem. This marks yet another injury concern for the 30-year-old, who has only managed 20 appearances this season. Guardiola revealed that both Stones and Manuel Akanji, who is suffering from an abductor injury, may require surgery.
“The next hours, days, we’ll know if he needs surgery or not. The same goes for Manuel Akanji,” Guardiola stated.
With 11 of his squad members set to be aged 30 or older by September, the Catalan coach admitted that some players might not be able to handle the club’s rigorous fixture demands.
“We need to be realistic,” he said. “We have to sit down with the medical staff, the players, and their representatives to assess whether they can keep up with playing every three or four days. This is the reality of football at this level.”
Among those affected could be Kevin De Bruyne, Nathan Aké, Bernardo Silva, and Ilkay Gündogan. Aké, who also featured against Real Madrid, has managed only 16 appearances this season, while De Bruyne, 33, has struggled with recurring injuries, including a pelvic problem that sidelined him for nearly two months earlier in the campaign.
Guardiola’s concerns extend beyond just the fitness of his squad. He believes the demands of playing over 50 matches in a season are excessive.
“It’s too much for the players,” he remarked. “Physically, it’s difficult for the human body to sustain this level of intensity over such a long period.”
City also faced a blow with Erling Haaland missing the Real Madrid clash due to a knee issue. While initial scans showed no serious damage, the Norwegian was deemed unfit to play after experiencing pain on matchday. His availability for City’s crucial Premier League clash against Liverpool remains uncertain.
“Maybe, but I don’t know yet,” Guardiola said when asked about Haaland’s chances of featuring against the league leaders. “We’ll assess him in training and make a decision.”
Despite Haaland’s absence, City have attacking options, with Omar Marmoush recently stepping up by scoring a hat-trick against Newcastle. However, Guardiola remains adamant that having his star striker on the pitch makes a significant difference.
“It’s always better to have Erling than not,” he said. “He’s a key player for us, and with him, we are stronger.”
As City navigate a crucial stage of the season, Guardiola’s comments suggest that big decisions are looming regarding the future of some of his most experienced players.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay / jorono, Unsplash / Fasyah Halim
