Manchester, 06 January (H.S.): Manchester City has been dealt a major setback after defender Josko Gvardiol sustained a fracture in his right tibia (shinbone) during Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Chelsea. The club confirmed the injury and stated that the 23-year-old Croatian international will undergo surgery this week.

Gvardiol was injured early in the second half at Stamford Bridge after an awkward collision near the halfway line, forcing him to leave the pitch in the 51st minute. This is a significant blow for City, whose defense is already grappling with injuries. Roughly half an hour later, regular center-back Ruben Dias was also forced off due to injury.

In an official statement, Manchester City said, “Manchester City can confirm that Josko Gvardiol has suffered a tibial fracture in his right leg. The defender will undergo surgery this week, and the severity of the injury and recovery timeline are currently being assessed.”

Dias was also substituted in the final 10 minutes, further weakening City’s defense during a crucial phase of the match.

Following the injury, Gvardiol shared an emotional message on Instagram, writing, “This is a difficult moment, but this is not my identity. I know who I am and where I come from. I will fight every day to return stronger. I will rise again, better than before.”

Defensive Crisis: Young Talent Recalled

Amid mounting injury concerns, City recalled academy graduate Max Aarons from his loan spell at Championship club Watford. The 20-year-old could be included in the squad for Wednesday’s league clash against Brighton.

After the match, manager Pep Guardiola commented on Dias’ injury: “Yes, it looks like a muscle issue. I haven’t spoken to the doctor yet, but if Ruben is out, he must have felt something. We already have several injuries—John Stones has been out for months, now Ruben and Josko will be sidelined as well.”

He added, “We know Nathan can’t play regularly. After what happened last season, if we remain strong, we’ll find solutions. If the team’s spirit stays strong, we’ll stay strong too.”

League Position

With the draw against Chelsea, Manchester City remains unbeaten in their last 10 matches across all competitions, recording 8 wins and 2 draws. The result has seen City return to second place in the league table, although they still trail leaders Arsenal by six points.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar