08 November 2023 , 00:00
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Pep Guardiola worried Manchester City fans with an update on John Stones' fitness after Manchester City's victory over Young Boys in the Champions League.
City had three wins from three going into the game at the Etihad Stadium, and that turned into four from four. Top scorer Erling Haaland scored twice after shaking off a knock, with Phil Foden also on target for City as they continued their European title defence.
It might have been considered a perfect evening were it not for a couple of injury blows. Stones and fellow centre-back Manuel Akanji both suffered setbacks, and the manager provided the latest on the pair after the game.
"Manuel had a problem in the back and what happened meant he was out," Guardiola said. "And unfortunately, John is out again. I feel so sorry for him because he has shown such commitment and he is a big loss for us. John is so important for what he does.
"But yeah, recover, the season is long and he will be back stronger." When asked if he thought Stones will be out for a while, the manager replied: "Yeah, I think so".
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The blow comes at a far from ideal time for Guardiola and City, who moved back to the top of the Premier League table with a 6-1 victory over Bournemouth on Saturday. They are due to travel to Chelsea on Sunday, before facing Liverpool, Spurs and Aston Villa in the three league games after that.
How big a miss will John Stones be for Manchester City? Have your say in the comments section
John Stones picked up an injury as Manchester City beat Young Boys (AFP via Getty Images)"Of course we are incredibly happy to have qualified with two games left," Guardiola told TNT Sports after his team's victory."Finish first. We have time to think about it.
"Maybe we were not... clinical is not the right word... not clear, sweet, soft enough in the last moment to score more goals. But I love to see the team.
"The word that define this group of players for many years is the consistency. We have high standards and and that is why we are still in the Premier League up there and qualified from the Champions League.