He Manchester City He seeks his first victory of 2026 in the Premier League this Saturday, in the Manchester derby. The team cannot afford any more setbacks if it wants to stay close to Arsenal at the top of the table.
Arsenal are six points ahead after City’s streak of draws, although Pep Guardiola’s team arrives at the classic with good feelings after beating Newcastle 2-0 in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-finals, a result that leaves them very close to the final.
That victory was even more valuable due to the number of casualties on defense. Guardiola had to turn to a youngster who spent the first half of the season on loan at Watford to accompany Abdukodir Khusanov. Although keeping him as a starter would be risky, injuries force the coach to consider that option.
These are the players that Manchester City will not have for the duel at Old Trafford.
Ruben Dias
Status: Low
Possible return: February
The defender suffers a muscle injury in his thigh that will keep him out for several more weeks. Guardiola assured that he will return “soon”, but an absence of up to six weeks is estimated after the draw against Chelsea on January 4.
Josko Guardiol
Status: Low
Possible return: Unknown
The Croatian broke his leg in the draw against Chelsea and will not return any time soon. He was a key player on defense and is expected to miss much of the rest of the season.
Nico Gonzalez
Status: Doubt
Posible regreso: vs. Manchester United (17/01/26)
The midfielder has a minor bone injury suffered against Brighton on January 7. Guardiola confirmed that Friday’s training session will determine whether he can play. Otherwise, Rodri is available.
John Stones
Status: Low
Possible return: February
Constant injuries have limited his continuity since the 2022–23 season. He has not played since December due to a thigh injury and everything indicates that he has already played his last derby, since his contract expires at the end of the campaign.
Omar Marmoush
Status: African Cup of Nations
Possible regression: vs. Bodø/Glimpse (20/01/26)
Egypt was eliminated in the semifinals, but is still fighting for third place. Marmoush will return to City afterwards and could make a comeback in the Champions League.
Oscar Bobb
Status: Low
Possible return: February
The young Norwegian winger suffers a muscle injury and has not had continuity. With greater competition in his position, there is talk of a possible loan when he is recovered.
Savinho
Status: Low
Possible return: February
The Brazilian has physical problems and his latest injury, suffered on January 1 against Sunderland, will keep him out for several more weeks.
Mateo Kovačić
Status: Low
Possible return: Unknown
The Croatian is recovering from heel surgery. He will not return soon, although he is expected to reappear before the 2026 World Cup and can still play this season for City.
