Man City's premier league title chase suffer 2 huge injury blows

Manchester City’s Title Hopes Hit by Injury Crisis as Key Players Ruled Out

Manchester City’s bid to retain the Premier League title in the 2025/2026 season has suffered a major setback following a series of injury blows to key members of Pep Guardiola’s squad.

City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that the reigning champions are currently dealing with multiple fitness issues, revealing that “six or seven players” are sidelined at a crucial stage of the campaign.

The most severe concern is Josko Gvardiol, who is expected to be out for a lengthy period after sustaining a broken shinbone during City’s clash with Chelsea. Defensive partner Rúben Dias has also been ruled out for between four and six weeks after picking up a hamstring injury.

City’s defensive problems are further compounded by uncertainty surrounding John Stones, with Guardiola admitting he has “no idea” when the England international will return. Stones’ absence is particularly worrying given that he is approaching the final six months of his contract at the Etihad Stadium.

The injury crisis mirrors a similar situation City faced last season, which ultimately triggered a £200 million spending spree on five new signings to bolster the squad. However, Guardiola insisted that this campaign presents a different challenge.

“The spirit is different. Maybe we get something, but it’s completely different from last season. We are not going to buy four or five players like last season. To have the best transfer net spend in the country? We are not, but apparently we always are,” Guardiola said.

With several first-team regulars unavailable, Manchester City now face an uphill battle to keep pace in the Premier League title race as the season enters a decisive phase.