In the wake of Manchester City’s fresh injury blow with defender Rúben Dias sidelined for up to a month, manager Pep Guardiola remains steadfast in his belief that the reigning Premier League champions can turn their season around. The news of Dias’ muscular issue compounds City’s current crisis, having lost eight of their last 11 matches and sitting a dismal nine points off the pace of league leaders Liverpool.
Guardiola: “We Have to Start Again”
Speaking candidly about the club’s recent run of poor form, Guardiola acknowledged his own shortcomings while expressing confidence in City’s ability to bounce back. The Spaniard reflected on the narrow 2-1 derby defeat to rivals Manchester United last weekend, lamenting the result but emphasizing the need to pick themselves up and go again.
“We were close to winning and we lost the game. I was not happy and had to be honest with myself. You fall down six times, you have to stand up seven. But it’s normal. I am fine. We have to start again.”
Pep Guardiola
Dias Out, Defensive Crisis Looms
The Cityzens now face the prospect of an extended period without their defensive linchpin Rúben Dias after the Portuguese international suffered a muscular injury in the second half against United. Guardiola confirmed Dias is set for a lengthy spell on the treatment table, further depleting City’s backline options.
“Rúben Dias is out for a long time. Three or four weeks. Muscular issue. After 75 minutes against United he felt something but he is so strong so stayed on the pitch”
There was some positive news on the injury front, with Guardiola revealing that centre-backs Manuel Akanji and John Stones have resumed training. However, goalkeeper Ederson remains a doubt for Saturday’s trip to Aston Villa as City look to kickstart their stuttering campaign.
Key Takeaways
- Rúben Dias sidelined for 3-4 weeks with muscular injury
- Pep Guardiola admits struggles but backs City to “turn it around”
- Manuel Akanji and John Stones return to training
- Ederson a doubt for Aston Villa clash
As the sky blues look to reignite their title defense, starting this weekend at Villa Park, they must do so without their defensive stalwart in Dias. It remains to be seen whether Guardiola can mastermind a reversal of fortunes and make up ground on the likes of Arsenal and surprise package Newcastle United in the coming weeks.
One thing is certain: a club of Manchester City’s ambition and resources will not go down without a fight. Expect Guardiola to rally his troops for a critical phase of the season as they continue to compete on multiple fronts, with the Champions League knockout rounds also on the horizon. The road ahead is littered with obstacles, but write off this City side at your peril.
