Pep Guardiola has described John Stones’ injury as a “big loss,” so it’s possible that Man City will be without him once more when Liverpool visits in just over two weeks.
Throughout the current season, Stones has battled hip issues; however, he has just recently become fit again and has started four of the last five games.
However, the adaptable Englishman was substituted at halftime of Tuesday’s 3-0 Champions League victory over Young Boys, with Nathan Ake taking his place.
In addition to starting as a center-back in both three- and four-man back lines in recent weeks, the 29-year-old was replacing first-choice defensive midfielder Rodri.
Speaking to TNT Sports following the match, Guardiola said that his extended absence will be a “big loss,” especially with Liverpool’s visit coming up a few weeks later on November 25.
He said, “Unfortunately, John felt [his hip] again.”
“He is so incredibly dedicated and professional that I feel terrible for him.
“It’s a significant loss for us. John has such significance in his work.”
Guardiola stated that he anticipated Stones’ long-term absence, which means he won’t play against Liverpool following the international break.
When pressed for more details during his press conference after the game, Guardiola said, “It’s a muscular injury, so it will be a while out.”
“I feel bad for him, as he is an amazing professional. It’s unfortunate, but he tried his best. We have bad news for tonight, bad news for us.”
“We have to play a bit differently, like what happened in Arsenal [when Stones and Rodri were out and Bernardo Silva sat deepest in a 1-0 defeat],” Guardiola went on. “Now we are in trouble.”
Actually, Man City has already adapted to life without Stones, but as Guardiola noted, any problem for Rodri could make matters worse.
The Premier League leaders’ system depends so heavily on the England international that there may be a ripple effect in the upcoming weeks.
Liverpool will be hoping that it puts a dent in the defence of a team whose only league losses have come against Wolves and Arsenal, both of whom were without Rodri and Stones.