Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued an important fitness update on several key members of his squad as his side prepare for a crucial Premier League encounter against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
City head into the fixture in confident mood following an impressive run of results. Their recent form has underlined their strength in depth and resilience, particularly after securing silverware in the EFL Cup final against Arsenal before delivering a commanding 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
Despite those dominant displays, Guardiola’s side have had to navigate recent matches without key defensive figures Ruben Dias and John Stones.
Both defenders have been sidelined with injuries, forcing adjustments at the back during a demanding period in the season.
Assistant coach Pep Lijnders had earlier attempted to ease concerns by indicating that neither player was facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
His comments suggested that both could soon return to first-team action, offering a boost to Guardiola as the campaign approaches its decisive phase.
“Ruben got a knock (last Friday) in the last minutes of training,” Lijnders told reporters. “We are assessing it. I think he had a scan again, so we have to see.
“John, to be honest, I think he will not be long term, but he was not available (against Liverpool).”
Defensive concerns remain ahead of Stamford Bridge trip
Providing a more up-to-date assessment on Friday, Guardiola confirmed that Dias has made progress but will not be fit in time to face Chelsea.
The Portuguese centre-back has been a cornerstone of City’s defence, and his absence continues to be felt, even as the team maintains strong performances.
“[Dias is] getting better. He’s not ready for Sunday,” Guardiola said.
There was slightly more optimism regarding Stones, who could yet play some role depending on his recovery in the coming days.
Guardiola indicated that the England international is nearing a return, although no final decision has been made.
“Today maybe [Stones] will do partial training, we’ll see.”
The uncertainty surrounding Stones leaves Guardiola with a selection dilemma in defence, particularly against a Chelsea side capable of posing significant attacking threats.
City’s ability to cope without two of their most experienced defenders has been notable, but their return would provide added stability during a crucial stretch of fixtures.
Meanwhile, Josko Gvardiol remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from a serious injury sustained earlier in the year.
The Croatian defender suffered a tibial fracture during the reverse fixture against Chelsea in January, a setback that has kept him out of action for an extended period.
Guardiola made it clear that while progress is being made, Gvardiol is still some way from returning to full fitness.
“He’s getting better, but still he isn’t close,” Guardiola added.
Gvardiol’s absence has further tested City’s defensive depth, particularly given the physical demands of competing across multiple competitions.
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His versatility and composure have been missed, although Guardiola has rotated effectively to manage the situation.
Kovacic boost as City approach decisive run-in
There was more encouraging news regarding Mateo Kovacic, who has endured a disrupted season due to a long-term ankle and heel problem that required surgery.
The former Chelsea midfielder has gradually worked his way back into contention and has recently been named among the substitutes.
Guardiola confirmed that Kovacic is now fully fit and ready to contribute as City enter the final weeks of the campaign.
The midfielder’s return could prove significant, particularly given his experience and familiarity with Chelsea, his former club.
His presence offers Guardiola additional options in midfield, where control and composure will be essential against top-level opposition.
