Heading into their Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest tomorrow evening there has been both good and bad news on the injury front for Manchester City. Pep Guardiola provided an update on the condition of John Stones and Kevin De Bruyne earlier today. The update on Stones is cause for concern. But the update on De Bruyne’s condition is welcome news for the world champions.
First, the good news. Pep Guardiola was asked during his pre-game press conference about Kevin De Bruyne’s status. Guardiola told the media that De Bruyne is getting better: “He is closer [to full fitness] and [has been] even better in the last few days.”
But the update Guardiola provided on John Stones wasn’t as positive. When asked about Stones condition the City manager told the media that the England international isn’t close to returning to the pitch: “He’s not close, no. Still, he is injured – he has an injury to his feet. I don’t know [when he will be back] but, I would say, not next week.”
It does now appear that Kevin De Bruyne is nearing a return to City’s starting lineup. The situation surrounding the City legend has become confusing of late. But now it appears that the Belgian international is still working his way back to full fitness. Based on Guardiola’s update De Bruyne’s return to City’s starting lineup is edging closer.
The update on John Stones is, however, a cause for concern. When fit, Stones is a vital player for Pep Guardiola’s side. But his injury issues are becoming more frequent. It is fast becoming a problem for Manchester City. It remains to be seen when Stones will return.
Stones joins Rodri, Oscar Bobb and Mateo Kovacic on the sidelines for tomorrow night’s match as City look to return to winning ways against Nottingham Forest.
