Manchester City will host West Ham United at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon, aiming to continue their momentum following a 2-0 victory against Leicester City last weekend. Goals from Savinho and Erling Haaland ended City’s slump of one win in 13 games.
However, Pep Guardiola’s squad remains affected by injuries. During Friday’s press conference, Guardiola confirmed that no players would return in time for the game against Julen Lopetegui’s side. Here’s the latest update on Manchester City’s injury list.
QUOTES:
Ruben Dias:
Injury: Muscular.
What we know: Guardiola revealed Dias played through pain during the Manchester United derby before being sidelined. “Ruben will be out for three or four weeks. It’s muscular,” Guardiola stated. He confirmed Dias is improving but will not feature against West Ham.
Potential return date: January 11 vs. Salford City.
John Stones:
Injury: Foot.
What we know: Stones returned briefly last month but aggravated his foot injury. He is still recovering and unavailable for this match.
Potential return date: January 11 vs. Salford City.
Matheus Nunes:
Injury: Unknown.
What we know: Nunes has been absent for three matches, and Guardiola remains uncertain about his availability for the West Ham clash.
Potential return date: January 11 vs. Salford City.
Ederson:
Injury: Knock.
What we know: The Brazilian keeper has missed three games but has recently improved in training. Despite this, Guardiola does not expect him to play this weekend.
Potential return date: January 11 vs. Salford City.
Rodri:
Injury: ACL.
What we know: Rodri’s serious knee injury will keep him out until mid-2025. He hopes to return for the Club World Cup.
Potential return date: June 2025.
Oscar Bobb:
Injury: Fractured leg.
What we know: Bobb suffered his injury in August, but the club hopes he will return early in the new year.
Potential return date: January/February.
RECALL:
City’s injury struggles have been a recurring theme this season, impacting their consistency. Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Ederson have all been pivotal figures in the team’s success, and their absence continues to affect Guardiola’s options.
CITATIONS:
This report is based on the information from:
- Pep Guardiola’s press conference, December 2024.
- Manchester City official updates.
KEEP IN MIND:
The West Ham game offers City an opportunity to strengthen their position in the Premier League despite ongoing challenges. Guardiola’s ability to adapt his squad amid these injuries will be crucial for maintaining their competitive edge.
