Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has subtly responded to England manager Gareth Southgate's recent comments regarding the workload of Manchester City defensive duo Kyle Walker and John Stones. Both players suffered muscular injuries during recent international friendlies at Wembley Stadium.
Walker was forced off against Brazil and Stones during Tuesday’s draw with Belgium. This comes as a blow for Manchester City as they face a crucial Premier League clash with Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon. This is the first of 10 matches across three competitions for Guardiola’s side before the end of April.
The Sky Blues are in pursuit of retaining last season’s historic treble, with matches across the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and Emirates FA Cup all scheduled. However, Guardiola could be without both Walker and Stones for several upcoming games due to their injuries.
Stones started both England’s friendlies
Stones’ campaign has been particularly hampered by a series of injury issues. Manchester City has been continually managing the workload of the 29-year-old after numerous setbacks.
Southgate's decision to start Stones in back-to-back England friendlies was met with criticism after he suffered an abductor problem midweek. While Southgate defended his decision to start Stones on Tuesday night, Guardiola expressed visible frustration over this injury news.
Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, said:
“I haven’t got any comments about that”
Man City have series of injuries to tackle after international break
Stones wasn't alone in suffering from injury blows during the international break; Manuel Akanji and Matheus Nunes also encountered problems. Additionally, Ederson, Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish all missed international duty due to injuries but could potentially return in the Arsenal match this weekend.
Upon returning from international duty on Thursday, scans were conducted on Stones at the City Football Academy; however, a timeframe for his recovery is yet unknown.
Guardiola's cryptic message to Southgate underscores the delicate balance that must be struck between club and country duties for players. As Manchester City continues their quest to retain last season’s historic treble, they will need all hands on deck. The hope is that Stones and other injured players recover swiftly to contribute to this ambitious goal.
