Guardiola’s worst nightmares realized before facing Arsenal and Real Madrid

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is concerned about a number of absences for upcoming crucial fixtures following a injury-ridden international break.

The Manchester City boss is facing the possibility of missing seven key players for Sunday’s important Premier League clash with Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium, as they aim for a fourth consecutive league title.

A win on Sunday could see City overtake current Premier League leaders Arsenal, with just one point currently separating the Gunners, Liverpool, and City at the top of the table.

Manchester City is unbeaten in all competitions since early December, and besides their Premier League ambitions, they are still in the Champions League and Emirates FA Cup, with crucial matches against Real Madrid and Chelsea next month.

Guardiola’s team will play three Premier League games before heading to the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday, April 9th, with matches against Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace on the horizon.

The Cityzens will have 10 matches in all competitions before the end of April, and could be without three defenders due to injuries following the international break.

Kyle Walker, John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Matheus Nunes all reportedly suffered injuries during the international break, while Kevin De Bruyne, Ederson, and Jack Grealish missed national team duty due to fitness issues.

The defensive trio are doubtful for Sunday’s clash with Arsenal, and there are also concerns about Erling Haaland’s fitness after he was seen leaving Norway training in discomfort last week.

An injury-filled international break has confirmed Guardiola’s fears, as he had said prior to the break: “It’s a wish that everyone is okay. It’s difficult sometimes during the busiest time of the season. The schedule is the schedule.

“I will not watch the games. I will rest and when they arrive on Thursday, we will see which players survive and don’t survive.”

Walker and Stones are both scheduled for scans upon their return to the City Football Academy on Thursday, as Manchester City tries to assess the extent of the England duo’s injuries.

Walker reportedly suffered a hamstring injury against Brazil, and Stones was forced off with an abductor issue according to Gareth Southgate.