Pep Guardiola
Manchester City has been dealt a significant blow with the news that midfielder Mateo Kovacic will be sidelined for an extended period due to an ankle injury. The Croatian international, who has yet to start for City this season, has been struggling with fitness issues following Achilles surgery over the summer.
Pep Guardiola said: “He will be out for a while. He still has a problem with the ankle, a little calcification still there. We’ll wait on him for the last part of the season.”
Kovacic’s absence adds pressure on Manchester City’s midfield, particularly on players like Nico Gonzalez and Rodri, who will need to maintain their fitness and form to ensure the team’s momentum in the Premier League. Despite the setback, City managed a 3-1 victory over Bournemouth, which propelled them to second place in the league, narrowing the gap to leaders Arsenal to six points.
Guardiola continued: “One week ago we were not [in the title race], in Villa Park. I said from the beginning I like the team. I give credit to the opponents, they play minute one to 95 in the same rhythm. If you are not clever, we lost easy or sloppy balls and nobody can stop them in transitions. Hopefully, Arsenal can concede one goal one day. I had the feeling since the Club World Cup that we were in that moment. It’s just 10 games, still 28 to play, many things are going to happen and feel that the team is getting better and better.”
The injury is particularly frustrating for Kovacic, who missed the entire pre-season, including the Club World Cup, and was only able to make brief appearances off the bench against Everton and Villarreal. His latest setback means he will miss crucial upcoming fixtures, including the highly anticipated match against Liverpool before the international break in November.
Manchester City’s resilience will be tested as they aim to keep pace with Arsenal in the title race. Guardiola’s side will need to rely on their squad depth and tactical flexibility to navigate the challenges posed by Kovacic’s absence. As the season progresses, the team will hope for a swift recovery for Kovacic, who could play a vital role in the latter stages of the campaign.
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