Manchester City prepares for FA Cup matches

Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol will undergo surgery for a fractured right leg sustained during the 1-1 draw against Chelsea in the English Premier League, Reuters reports.

The 23-year-old Croatian required assistance to leave the field early in the second half, and the club confirmed the fracture of the defender’s tibia the following day, CE Report quotes BTA.

“The defender will undergo surgery later this week, after which there will be more clarity regarding his expected return date,” the club said in an official statement.

Manchester City sit second in the Premier League with 42 points, six behind leaders Arsenal. The team will also be without another key central defender, Ruben Dias, who was also injured in the Chelsea match.

The defensive difficulties are compounded by the long-term absence of John Stones, as well as Ryan Ait-Nouri’s participation in the African Cup of Nations. Additionally, Nico Gonzalez, Savinho, Oscar Bob, Mateo Kovacic, and Omar Marmush are also unavailable for Guardiola.

The only positive news for the Spanish manager is that 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri made his first start since October, playing the full 90 minutes against Chelsea.

“This has been a terrible period for me. Everything now is a gift—every minute I’m on the pitch is joy. I thank God for giving me this second chance to enjoy my profession and regain my smile,” said the 29-year-old midfielder.

He added: “The schedule is busy in winter, and we are without many players, but this is the rhythm, and we must adapt. No excuses—we have to go through these situations, lift our heads, and focus on the next match.”

As reported by CE Report, Manchester City will travel to Brighton on Wednesday in the Premier League and host third-division Exeter City on Saturday in the third round of the FA Cup.