Pep Guardiola has expressed concern about Manchester City’s injury situation, admitting the team has “got a problem” as they struggle to defend their Premier League title.
Following recent matches, including a 1-1 draw against Newcastle and a 2-2 draw with Arsenal, Man City’s form have faltered.
Liverpool capitalised on this, moving to the top of the table with their victory over Wolves on Saturday.
Guardiola’s side has been notably affected by injuries, with Kevin De Bruyne sidelined and Erling Haaland sustaining an ankle injury, raising doubts about his availability for the upcoming Champions League clash against Slovan Bratislava.
The injury list continues to grow, with long-term concerns for players like Oscar Bobb and Rodri.
Despite these challenges, Guardiola remains calm, reflecting on his extensive tenure as manager of the club.
“During seven, eight years, we have handled it, nine years, I would say this is my ninth season here,” he said.
“Always it’s been like that, so it’s the same, no change.”
“We have a problem this season with long, long injuries, especially with Oscar (Bobb), with Rodri for a long, long time and that is completely different to the past, but the schedules are the same.”
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is adopting a patient approach as he manages Phil Foden’s return to full fitness following an illness.
Although Foden has made only a limited number of starts this season, with his sole appearance from the beginning coming in the Carabao Cup victory against Watford, his influence on the team remains invaluable, according to Guardiola.
Guardiola said: “The thing is he is playing, but Phil doesn’t need time.
“When he’s clever and fine, it’s not a problem.
“I know how important Phil is for us, so there’s no doubt about that.
“It doesn’t matter if he starts or comes from the bench.
“With this amount of games, he will have his minutes, that’s for sure.”
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