Arsenal’s prospects in the league have received a boost, given Manchester City’s recent setbacks. Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, revealed that a key player suffered a severe ankle injury during a Champions League match, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming game against Arsenal.
Bernardo Silva, the Portuguese international, was forced to leave the field early in the game against Red Star Belgrade. This unfortunate turn of events means he is set to miss Manchester City’s next three matches, including the crucial matchup with Arsenal.
During their Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade, Silva had to be substituted just before halftime. This was a blow for the player, who had recently extended his contract with the club until 2026. However, Manchester City managed to secure a 3-1 victory in that game, with Julian Alvarez scoring twice in the second half and Rodri adding a stylish goal.
Guardiola expressed his concern about Silva’s injury, stating that he expected him to miss the “next games.” This comes as a setback for the reigning Premier League champions, who were already missing key players like Kevin De Bruyne due to a major hamstring injury requiring surgery. De Bruyne’s absence is expected to extend into the new year.
The absence of Silva and De Bruyne adds to the list of injured players at Manchester City. England defender John Stones has been missing since the Community Shield defeat to Arsenal in August, and recent injuries to midfielders Jack Grealish and Mateo Kovacic have further strained the team’s resources.
Guardiola acknowledged the challenge of coping with so many crucial players being sidelined, saying, “When we have five vital players – really, very important players – injured, to sustain that for a long time will be difficult. However, it is what it is.”
Looking ahead, Manchester City faces a demanding schedule, including a Premier League match against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on October 8, followed by a trip to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup. Guardiola emphasized the financial constraints clubs face in managing their squads, stating, “We don’t have enough money set aside for salary and transfers to support 55 players. The clubs would be in disarray, and they would go bankrupt. It occurs occasionally.”
