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Pep Guardiola has several players on the injury list ahead of a busy period for Man City, with the manager hoping that players return as soon as possible
05:30, 14 Jan 2026Updated 06:39, 14 Jan 2026
Manchester City have one foot in the Carabao Cup final after taking a 2-0 lead in the first leg of their semi-final against Newcastle United at St James’ Park.
Goals from Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki put Pep Guardiola’s side in control of the tie. It could have been even better, with Semenyo having a second goal controversially ruled out by VAR for offside.
City host Newcastle in the second leg of the tie early next month. That game could possibly see some of their injury concerns ease up.
Injuries have led to defender Max Alleyne being given a chance following a recall from his loan with Championship side Watford. With a busy schedule, the 20-year-old is expected to get plenty more chances in the coming weeks.
His performances so far have eased concerns around defensive injuries, but Guardiola will be hoping to welcome players back as soon as possible.
With that in mind, here’s a look at the latest from the treatment room at the Etihad Stadium.
Ruben Dias
Injury: Hamstring
The defender suffered the injury in the 1-1 draw against Chelsea, causing him to miss the last three games in all competitions.
What Guardiola has said: “[Ruben has injured his] hamstring [and will be out for] between four and six weeks.”
Potential return: February.
Mateo Kovacic
Injury: Ankle
The midfielder has made just one Premier League appearance this season, but had been out since the start of November due to an ankle injury.
What Guardiola has said: “He will be out for a while... He still has a problem with the ankle; a little calcification [is] still there. We'll wait on him for the last part of the season.”
Potential return: February.
Savinho
Injury: Knock
The forward came off in the New Year’s Day clash against Sunderland, and hasn’t featured since.
Potential return date: February.
Josko Gvardiol
Injury: Shin
The defender has undergone surgery after suffering a broken shin.
What has been said: “The defender will have surgery later this week and assessment remains ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the injury and expected prognosis,” the club said in a statement following the injury.
Expected return date: April/May.
John Stones
Injury: Thigh
The defender has been out of action since the start of December with a thigh injury.
What Guardiola has said: “[He is not] ready for the next games. Of course, he’s an important player for us for a long time, and he was injured for a long time last season; this season looks the same. He’s trying a lot and trying everything, but he’s not fit.”
Potential return date: February.
Oscar Bobb
Injury: Hamstring
The youngster has been linked with a move away in January, but is currently sidelined through injury.
What Guardiola has said: “He is still injured. He has not trained with us since the game against Brentford.”
Potential return date: February.
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