Injury worries mount as Man City trio face race to return | OneFootball

Man City Injuries: Latest News on Stones, Marmoush and Cherki

Manchester City’s convincing 3-0 victory over Manchester United at the weekend has restored momentum at a crucial stage of the season. With the Champions League returning this week and a significant Premier League clash against Arsenal on the horizon, focus has quickly shifted from derby delight to squad availability.

Pep Guardiola’s side remain in contention on multiple fronts, but fitness concerns continue to shape preparations. While Phil Foden marked his return with a vital goal at Old Trafford, other senior figures are still working their way back to full fitness.

Below is the latest update on Man City injuries, with insight into return dates and the impact on Guardiola’s plans.

Omar Marmoush setback

Egypt international Omar Marmoush faces a spell on the sidelines following a knee ligament issue sustained while on international duty. The forward was withdrawn during Egypt’s goalless draw with Burkina Faso last week and later seen with his leg in a brace and supported by crutches.

The Egyptian Football Association confirmed ligament bruising and stated further scans would be carried out in Cairo. City swiftly ruled him out of the derby, though Guardiola has indicated the problem is not long term. A more precise timeline should emerge once the player undergoes additional assessments.

John Stones fitness concerns

John Stones had started every Premier League match for City this season before suffering a minor muscle injury while away with England. The setback came only days after he completed 90 minutes in a league fixture, raising eyebrows when his absence from the Manchester derby was confirmed.

Guardiola suggested the injury is not regarded as serious, offering optimism that Stones could be ready to feature in the Champions League group opener against Napoli. His return would be timely, particularly given the defensive demands of the upcoming schedule.

Potential return: 18 September 2025 vs Napoli (home)

Rayan Cherki absence

Summer signing Rayan Cherki was not part of the squad to face Manchester United after sustaining a knock during the international break. The exact nature of the issue has not been disclosed, and clarity over his expected recovery time remains limited.

While initial indications are that it is not a long-term absence, Guardiola will want the French forward back quickly given the congested fixture list.

Potential return: To be confirmed

Mateo Kovacic recovery

Midfielder Mateo Kovacic continues his rehabilitation from Achilles surgery undertaken before the Club World Cup. He has yet to make a competitive appearance this season. Guardiola previously outlined that a return was unlikely before late September or October, though the Croatian’s recovery is being closely managed with no risks taken.

Potential return: October 2025

Balancing short-term gains with long-term fitness

City’s ability to rotate and maintain momentum will be tested in the coming weeks. The return of Foden and the consistent form of Erling Haaland provide reassurance, but Guardiola knows the reintegration of Stones, Marmoush, Cherki and Kovacic will be essential if City are to sustain challenges on all fronts.

For now, the squad is buoyed by a derby win, yet the fitness bulletin remains a central theme as Manchester City navigate a critical period in their season.