Why Nico Gonzalez is missing from Manchester City’s squad against Newcastle | OneFootball

Manchester City will take on Newcastle United in the first-leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie without Nico Gonzalez, the club have confirmed.

The omission of the Spanish midfielder immediately raised questions among fans, particularly after being named on the bench for the emphatic 10-1 FA Cup win over Exeter City at the weekend.

Given the ongoing injury concerns elsewhere in the squad, and Pep Guardiola’s recent emphasis on squad flexibility and rotation, Gonzalez had been viewed as a strong candidate to feature in a high-intensity tie at St James’ Park.

City have already been dealing with a mounting list of fitness problems in recent weeks, particularly in defensive areas, with Josko Gvardiol, Ruben Dias, and John Stones all managing separate injury issues. Guardiola has repeatedly stressed the importance of careful load management and avoiding unnecessary risks during this congested run of fixtures, especially with major domestic and European competitions still ahead.

The midfield unit has also been under scrutiny, with Pep Guardiola exploring alternative options such as Nico O’Reilly stepping into more responsibility and Rodri being carefully protected after a heavy workload, and that context makes Gonzalez’s absence more significant.

Now, ahead of kick-off, the one notable absentee confirmed by Pep Guardiola and Manchester City is in fact Nico Gonzalez – who has been left out of the matchday squad in the North-East of England entirely.

Speaking ahead of the contest at St James’ Park, and having left Rodri on the bench with Nico O’Reilly expected to deputise in central midfield on the night, Pep Guardiola confirmed that Nico is out through an “incredible knock” sustained against Brighton & Hove Albion last week.

https://twitter.com/City_Xtra/status/2011147973162672284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

The explanation could mean that Nico Gonzalez’s absence may be precautionary rather than tactical, with the club opting not to take any risks in such a demanding fixture.

Given his recent availability and his presence on the bench against Exeter in the FA Cup, the hope will be that the issue is short-term, but Manchester City’s medical staff will be keen to monitor his recovery closely.

Looking ahead, Gonzalez could return swiftly if the knock responds well to treatment, potentially placing him back in contention for the weekend’s away trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United on Saturday afternoon.

Pep Guardiola has already highlighted the need for depth and adaptability, and a fit Gonzalez remains an important option in his midfield rotation. With the schedule showing little sign of easing, City’s approach is likely to remain cautious, and protecting players from aggravating minor injuries into long-term setbacks has become a clear priority.