In the current football season, Manchester City has been enjoying a perfect record from the beginning. However, the team has been facing a significant challenge with the absence of three crucial players: John Stones, Jack Grealish, and Kevin De Bruyne. Let’s take a closer look at the latest updates on their injuries and return dates.
John Stones, a key defender for City, has been sidelined due to a hip injury. He played the entire game during the Community Shield match but has not featured in any Premier League games this season. Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Stones would not be available for selection until after the international break. Assistant manager Juanma Lillo mentioned in early September that Stones was progressing well, but his return was not yet conclusive.
Jack Grealish, a talented midfielder, missed Our City’s victory over Fulham before the international break due to a thigh injury. He also withdrew from the England squad because of this injury. There is hope that Grealish may be able to return for the upcoming match against West Ham in the league, but the exact timeline remains uncertain. Lillo expressed the difficulty in predicting Grealish’s recovery, emphasizing that he is not a doctor.
Kevin De Bruyne, a vital midfielder for Manchester City, suffered a serious hamstring injury just 23 minutes into the season-opening match against Burnley. This injury occurred after a two-month absence following his substitution in the Champions League final. Guardiola highlighted the importance of De Bruyne to the team and mentioned that his absence had been more prolonged than expected. Due to the critical role he plays and his age (32), the team is eager to ensure he returns to full fitness before he can rejoin the squad, possibly not until January.
