Guardiola said the champions were in trouble and ‘real difficulty’ ahead of the trip to Bournemouth on Saturday.
Pep Guardiola acknowledged that Manchester City faces multiple injury concerns prior to their upcoming match against Bournemouth in the Premier League.
Guardiola expressed that the reigning champions are experiencing significant challenges following additional injuries sustained during Wednesday’s 2-1 loss to Tottenham.
Savinho was taken off the field on a stretcher due to a severe ankle injury; however, Guardiola reassured that the winger’s condition is not overly serious. Additionally, City may be without defenders Manuel Akanji, who experienced an issue during the warm-up, and Josko Gvardiol, who required medical attention at the conclusion of the match.
The injury list for City also includes Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Jack Grealish, and Jeremy Doku, while Rodri and Oscar Bobb remain long-term absentees. Guardiola refrained from specifying the exact number of first-team players unavailable, noting that most are considered to have a 50-50 chance of playing, as he encouraged his diminished squad to avoid self-pity.
“I have many uncertainties,” Guardiola stated. “Most of them are uncertain. You will find out tomorrow.
“It is what it is. We are not unique in facing injuries; many clubs experience similar situations. We have numerous injuries in specific areas, but we must accept it.
“I have repeatedly told the team to refrain from feeling sorry for ourselves. The challenge lies in this situation, and we will field 11 players tomorrow.” Guardiola dismissed the idea of adding new players to the squad in January, anticipating the return of De Bruyne, Walker, Doku, and Grealish by that time.
He emphasized the need for City to navigate through their injury predicament, drawing parallels to Liverpool’s extensive injury woes during the 2020/21 season. “When we are all together, the squad is sufficient, complete, and of high quality,” Guardiola remarked.
“I recall that three seasons ago, Liverpool faced numerous injuries and struggled. It is what it is. We must adapt and concentrate on securing a victory tomorrow.”
