November 22nd 2024.
Unfortunately, Mateo Kovacic will be absent from the pitch for a stretch of upcoming matches with Manchester City. The midfielder sustained an injury while playing for his national team, Croatia, during the international break. At 30 years old, Kovacic has become a crucial player for Pep Guardiola's squad this season, especially with Rodri's unfortunate knee injury sidelining him for the season. Kovacic has stepped up to fill the void left by the current Balon d'Or holder and has made 11 appearances in the Premier League, starting in 10 of them. However, his recent unspecified injury will keep him out of action for a few weeks or possibly even a month.
On a brighter note, there is some good news for the defense. John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Nathan Ake have all recovered from their respective injuries and are ready to play again. The only remaining player on the injury list is Ruben Dias, who is still recovering from a calf issue. Guardiola shared in a press conference that while the trio of defenders may not be ready for a full 90 minutes, it's a relief to have them back in training and ready to contribute.
Speaking of Ruben Dias, the Portuguese defender's absence has been felt by the team. Guardiola expressed his hope for Dias' speedy return, saying, "Just Ruben is out but hopefully he will be back soon. We didn't have central defenders and now we have three." Manchester City will need all the help they can get as they face Tottenham in their next Premier League match on Saturday evening. The reigning champions are in desperate need of a turnaround, having lost their last four games in all competitions, including a recent defeat to Tottenham in the Carabao Cup.
Guardiola acknowledges the pressure that comes with being a top team, stating, "You are able to lose four games in a row, but you are also able to win four Premier Leagues in a row." The manager knows that his team is capable of bouncing back from this rough patch, but it will take determination and hard work. With players like Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku, and Jack Grealish all questionable for the upcoming match due to missing the international break, it will be up to the remaining players to step up and deliver a much-needed win for Manchester City.
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