Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that two members of his squad are currently dealing with injury problems, raising concerns about their availability for upcoming fixtures.
The Spaniard revealed that Rayan Ait-Nouri and Rico Lewis are both struggling with fitness issues, though there was also positive news as Mateo Kovacic has returned to the squad.
The latest developments come at a crucial stage of the season, with City competing on several fronts and aiming to maintain momentum across domestic and European competitions.
Guardiola, speaking ahead of the club’s next fixtures, explained that the injuries were discovered after the team’s most recent match.
Ait-Nouri suffers setback after strong run
One of the biggest concerns for City is the condition of left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri, who has recently become an important figure in Guardiola’s system.
The Algerian defender has enjoyed a strong run of games after returning from the Africa Cup of Nations earlier in the year.
Guardiola admitted that the problem surfaced during City’s last match and that the club chose not to risk worsening the issue.
“Unfortunately, in the last game, he had some niggles in the legs,” Guardiola admitted about Ait-Nouri. “He didn’t feel comfortable at all, so that’s why we didn’t want to take risks.”
Since arriving at the Etihad Stadium during the summer transfer window, Ait-Nouri initially needed time to settle into Guardiola’s demanding tactical system.
Like many players who join City, the defender had to adapt to the team’s positional style of play and the high expectations placed on full-backs in both attack and defence.
However, his progress in recent months has been clear. Following his return from international duty, the 24-year-old has grown into a regular presence in the starting line-up.
Before the injury concern, Ait-Nouri had started each of City’s last nine matches across all competitions, highlighting how much trust Guardiola has begun to place in him. His ability on the ball and increasing confidence have made him a valuable option in the squad.
Guardiola was quick to praise the defender’s development, pointing to both his technical ability and his improvement in defensive work.
“He’s made a step forward a lot in the last games. He understands what we want and what we need,” the City manager said.
The coach also highlighted the qualities that convinced the club to sign the former Wolverhampton Wanderers player in the first place.
“His quality with the ball is fantastic. He gives us extra passes and defensively he’s more aggressive and more fast than people could think.
“That’s why we bought him from Wolves and he’s playing really, really good.”
If Ait-Nouri is forced to miss upcoming matches, Guardiola may need to rely on alternative defensive options, particularly with the team entering a demanding schedule.
Lewis also dealing with ankle issue
Another player facing fitness problems is young defender Rico Lewis. The England youth international has found opportunities limited this season and has struggled to secure regular starts in the league.
Lewis has begun only three Premier League matches during the current campaign, though he remains highly regarded by Guardiola, who has consistently spoken about the midfielder-turned-defender’s intelligence and versatility.
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The manager revealed that Lewis is currently managing an ankle problem that has kept him from full fitness.
“Rico has a problem with his ankles,” Guardiola revealed. “He’s a little bit swollen, but he’s on the edge to come back. Nearly back.”
Although Lewis has not featured regularly in the starting line-up, Guardiola has frequently relied on him when tactical flexibility is needed.
The academy graduate is known for his ability to move into midfield areas during possession, a role that has become a key feature of City’s style under Guardiola.
Despite the youngster’s limited playing time this season, the manager emphasised how highly he values the player.
“I always rely a lot on Rico, he has something special.
“I trust him a lot. I like him, Rico, a lot, a lot, a lot.”
