Good news as Manchester City star is set to return from injury and play City Next Champions League Game
Manchester City defender John Stones could be back to full fitness in the coming weeks, according to Pep Guardiola.
Due to an apparent hip ailment, the Englishman is yet to appear for the Citizens in the Premier League this season.
With the Premier League champions ready to face Wolves away from home this weekend, City manager Pep Guardiola has provided some behind-the-scenes information on the centre-back’s availability.
Guardiola addressed Stones’ fitness and when he might be able to return to duty in his recent press conference ahead of Saturday’s match at Molineux.
“John [Stones] is not ready,” he said. Kevin [De Bruyne] isn’t prepared. Bernardo is not doing well. The rest, I believe, are fine. [John Stones] is far superior. He’s in a great mood. He’s training alone for now, but he might start next week or after Leipzig.”
Since joining Manchester United from Everton in a £47.5 million deal in 2016, the Englishman has made 230 appearances across all competitions, contributing 15 goals and five assists while winning five Premier League titles.
Manchester City FC vs. Sevilla FC – UEFA Super Cup 2023 Image courtesy of Tom Flathers/Manchester City FC via Getty Images.
Last season, the 29-year-old made 34 appearances for City in all competitions and helped the team win the Champions League by playing defensive-midfield against Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan.
Guardiola praised Stones’ work in that midfield area, calling him a “incredible” player back in June for the way he operates in the middle of the game.
With all of that in mind, seeing the Englishman back in the team and being a vital figure for them will undoubtedly be a huge boost for the manager and the fans.