Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol will undergo surgery on a broken shin suffered against Chelsea, leaving Pep Guardiola short in defence.
Manchester City have confirmed Josko Gvardiol will undergo surgery after breaking his shinbone. The injury was sustained during Sunday’s 1-1 Premier League draw with Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium. Gvardiol was forced off in the 51st minute after appearing in visible discomfort. Further tests revealed a tibial fracture in his right leg.
Pep Guardiola admitted the situation is serious and expects a lengthy absence. Speaking on Tuesday, the City manager said the defender would be out “for a long time.” The club have not provided a clear recovery timeline yet. An assessment will continue following surgery later this week.
Gvardiol’s setback compounds Manchester City’s growing injury problems at the back. Ruben Dias was also withdrawn against Chelsea with a muscle issue. John Stones remains sidelined and has started only one league game since August. The lack of fit senior defenders has forced Guardiola into quick decisions.
The Croatia international took to social media to address supporters after the diagnosis. He thanked fans for their messages and insisted the injury would not define him. Gvardiol promised to fight daily to return stronger. His words were met with support from teammates and City fans.
City have acted swiftly by recalling Max Alleyne from his loan at Watford. The 20-year-old defender made 17 Championship appearances this season. Alleyne could feature in the squad for Wednesday’s league match against Brighton. The move adds depth but highlights City’s stretched resources.
Gvardiol had been a regular starter due to his versatility and composure. He has operated both centrally and on the left side of defence this season. His absence removes an important ball playing option in buildup. Guardiola will need to adjust his structure and personnel quickly.
Manchester City are now assessing their options in the January window. Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi is understood to be a long-term target. With defensive numbers dwindling, plans for a summer move could be accelerated. City face a packed schedule across domestic and European competitions.
The injury itself appeared innocuous during the Chelsea match. Gvardiol seemed to catch his foot in a challenge and initially walked off unaided. The diagnosis has raised concerns in Croatia ahead of the World Cup later this year. His recovery will be closely monitored at both club and international level.
Manchester City return to Premier League action against Brighton on Wednesday. Guardiola must decide how to reshuffle his defence with limited options available. The club will also continue monitoring Dias and Stones. Much depends on how quickly City can stabilise their back line.
