It’s a huge setback for Pep Guardiola.
Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol is set for surgery after the club confirmed he will require surgery on an injury suffered against Chelsea.
City announced on Monday that Gvardiol sustained a tibial fracture in the 1-1 draw with the Blues, a result that left them six points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal.
It is unclear how long Gvardiol faces on the sidelines, with the City statement reading in part: “The defender will have surgery later this week and assessment remains ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the injury and expected prognosis.”
Gvardiol has played in 23 games for City this season, the Croatia international scoring twice and providing four assists.
Manchester City could make Guehi move
With Ruben Dias also suffering an injury against Chelsea and John Stones already sidelined, City are reportedly stepping up their interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi.
City were thought to be waiting to learn the full extent of the injuries to Gvardiol and Dias before making a decision on whether to pursue Guehi.
Yet the confirmation of the nature of the injury to the versatile Gvardiol, who can operate as both a centre-back and a full-back, may now lead them to make their move.
Guehi was set to sign for Liverpool on deadline day of the previous transfer window, only for the move to collapse due to Palace’s inability to source a replacement for the England international.
However, with Guehi out of contract at the end of the season, the Eagles could now look to cash in and avoid losing him for free.
City host Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League on Wednesday as they look to put the pressure on Arsenal ahead of the Gunners’ clash with Liverpool on Thursday.
