Report: Man City defender doubtful ahead of crucial Liverpool clash | OneFootball

Injury Concerns for Manchester City Ahead of Anfield Clash

John Stones’ Absence Raises Questions

Manchester City have been dealt a potential setback ahead of their pivotal Premier League clash with Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday. As Pep Guardiola prepares to face Arne Slot in their first top-flight meeting, concerns over John Stones’ fitness could complicate City’s preparations.

The England international missed Monday’s training session, raising doubts about his availability. Stones’ absence comes at a crucial time, with City looking to recover from their shocking 4-0 home defeat to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend. Guardiola’s side sit eight points behind Liverpool, who continued their fine form with a 3-2 win over Southampton, thanks to a brace from Mohamed Salah and a goal by Dominik Szoboszlai.

Photo: IMAGO

Victory for Liverpool on Sunday would extend their lead to an imposing 11 points, positioning them as runaway favourites for the title. Opta’s supercomputer has already placed the Reds’ chances of lifting the trophy at over 60%, though Guardiola’s team should never be underestimated.

Key Injuries Pile Pressure on City

Fitness issues have plagued City’s season, impacting their consistency. John Stones’ potential absence adds to Guardiola’s defensive headache, with Rodri, Mateo Kovacic, and Oscar Bobb also unavailable. Stones was substituted at half-time in the defeat to Spurs, and his presence is vital against Liverpool’s high-tempo attack.

However, City have received some positive news: Ruben Dias and Jeremy Doku were both back in training on Monday. Their returns could provide Guardiola with much-needed options as he navigates this challenging fixture.

Despite their struggles, City’s depth and quality make it unwise to dismiss their title chances. With Kevin De Bruyne recently returning to the fold, the champions have the tools to fight back.

Kevin De Bruyne Reflects on Fitness Struggles

De Bruyne, who has endured his own injury woes this season, opened up about his frustrating road to recovery. Speaking ahead of City’s midweek Champions League tie against Feyenoord, the Belgian playmaker explained:

Photo IMAGO

“It’s basically your lower abdomen and everything with the nerves around was creating pain in my groin, so I couldn’t really shoot.

“Every time I would shoot the ball, I would get pain. So I was trying to find methods to get better, to get my power back, but it took a long time to get better, and actually, it only got better on Friday. And now, in the last few days, it’s been better.

“So I’m hoping to get that going upwards, and that’s it.”

De Bruyne’s return could be pivotal for City as they aim to rediscover their rhythm, but overcoming Liverpool at Anfield will be no small task.

Liverpool’s Momentum vs City’s Determination

Liverpool enter the weekend as the league’s standout performers, riding a wave of momentum with 10 wins from 13 matches. Arne Slot’s side have looked sharp in attack and resilient in defence, qualities that will test City’s resolve.

For Guardiola, this match is more than just three points—it’s an opportunity to reignite City’s campaign. If they can weather their injury setbacks and secure a result, the title race could take another twist.