Watford confirm Manchester City loan recall amid Pep Guardiola injury crisis | OneFootball

Manchester City have opted to recall one of their on-loan defensive talents as Pep Guardiola comes to terms with fresh issues at the heart of his rearguard.

The decision follows a turbulent few days, with City seeing their defensive resources stretched after the 1-1 draw with Chelsea. Pep Guardiola has already acknowledged the scale of the problem, with Josko Gvardiol ruled out for a prolonged period and further concerns surrounding Ruben Dias’ fitness.

A statement from the Etihad Stadium revealed that Gvardiol had suffered a tibial fracture and is now set to undergo surgery, leaving Manchester City light in central defensive areas. With John Stones sidelined and Nathan Aké continuing to be carefully managed, Guardiola and sporting director Hugo Viana have been forced into swift planning.

That has included turning back to the club’s loan network, where City have been monitoring the progress of several young defenders. Max Alleyne had been earning plaudits for his performances in the Championship, thus prompting an early end to his temporary spell away.

A statement issued by Watford on their media channels saw the Championship club confirm, “Max Alleyne has been recalled from loan by parent club Manchester City.

“The 20-year-old made 17 appearances for the Golden Boys, particularly impressing at the heart of our defence during a four-match winning streak.

“Thanks for your contribution, Max. You are welcome back anytime. Once a Hornet…”

Alleyne’s recall provides Pep Guardiola with an additional option during a congested period of fixtures, although it remains to be seen how prominently the youngster will feature in first-team plans.

His return is likely to ease training-ground numbers initially, while City assess the severity and timelines of their injured defenders, and there is an expectance that Alleyne will be in the next two matchday squads against Brighton in the Premier League and Exeter in the FA Cup.

Looking further ahead, the move does not rule out external recruitment, with City having maintained an interest in Crystal Palace and England centre-back Marc Guehi, and potential for a January deal discussed.

With crucial domestic and European fixtures looming, Manchester City’s ability to adapt – whether through youth reinforcements or transfer market intervention – may prove decisive in sustaining their challenge across multiple fronts.