Guardiola Expresses Concerns Over Defender Injuries Following Chelsea Draw

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola expressed his concerns following a series of injuries to defenders during the team’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea in the Premier League on Sunday.

Josko Gvardiol and Rúben Dias were both forced to exit the match in the second half, coinciding with Enzo Fernández’s stoppage-time equaliser at the Etihad Stadium. Additionally, Nico O’Reilly appeared to be experiencing hamstring issues as the match drew to a close.

The situation is compounded by the absence of John Stones, who has participated in only one league game since August, and Nathan Aké, who has also faced ongoing fitness challenges.

“Of course I have concerns,” Guardiola remarked. “Have you seen the bench today? Four players from the academy, and now we will have even more. We are running out of players.”

After losing both Gvardiol and Dias, Manchester City’s makeshift defense conceded Chelsea’s equaliser in the 94th minute. This marks the second consecutive game where Guardiola’s team has dropped points, now finding themselves six points adrift of league leaders Arsenal.

“We have numerous injuries,” Guardiola noted. “John Stones has been unavailable for what feels like months. Now Ruben will be out, Josko will be out as well. We are aware of Nathan’s ongoing challenges with fitness. It is what it is.”

He added, “We must stay strong, and we will find a solution. The spirit is intact and will remain so.”

After the match, Guardiola expressed particular concern for Gvardiol, who required assistance from Reece James and a member of City’s medical team while attempting to leave the pitch.

“We’ll assess the situation tomorrow (Monday); it does not look promising,” Guardiola said. “Both he and Ruben are under scrutiny. While I have yet to consult with the doctor, if Ruben is sidelined, it means he has felt something significant.”