Double blow for Blues as Walker and Stones out
KEY DEFENDERS SUFFERED INJURIES ON ENGLAND DUTY
PEP Guardiola confirmed that John Stones and Kyle Walker are out of tomorrow’s match with Arsenal as their absence raises doubts over whether they will be fit to face Real Madrid next month.
The Blues duo both picked up injuries on international duty, with Walker pulling up in the game against Brazil and Stones against Belgium a few days later.
Tests have subsequently confirmed they are not able to feature in the heavyweight Premier League clash this weekend, and Guardiola could not say when they will return.
City’s manager refused to offer comment on Gareth Southgate’s decision to start Stones twice in four days given his injury problems this season and historically, but is happier to be able to call on other doubts.
Manu Akanji and Matheus Nunes also picked up injuries during the break and Ederson, Kevin de Bruyne and Jack Grealish did not join up with their national teams, yet all have trained at the City Football Academy this week.
“It is what it is,” said Guardiola. “You have to see the calendar that we have. If we want to fight in all competitions we need all the players.
“We have enough and the calendar doesn’t look good for us but it is what it is. It’s good to be here with two titles and in contention for three titles after what happened last season.
“We made incredible work. Now with the last 10 games of the Premier League at home with our people – I’m pretty sure they will give us what we need to perform to our best. Right now every game is so important. If we are able to do it, the next game will be important as well.”