Manchester City Face Defensive Dilemma Ahead of Crystal Palace Clash
Injuries Continue to Bite Pep Guardiola’s Plans
Manchester City head into their Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace still battling an untimely defensive crisis. The reigning champions remain without three key defenders, as Pep Guardiola’s tactical flexibility is stretched once again in a season littered with injury disruptions.
John Stones, sidelined since February with a thigh issue, remains unavailable, with his return date still uncertain. Nathan Ake, who recently underwent surgery on a fractured foot, joins him on the absentee list. Manuel Akanji is also ruled out, having required surgery for an abductor injury. Both Stones and Akanji are not expected to return until late April at the earliest.
At his pre-match press conference, Guardiola was typically philosophical: “Still injured, we’ll see. [Injuries] happened all season, we adapt. You can see it as a problem or a challenge, the position is a disaster or it could be worse. I’m happy with the way we handled the situation and where we are.”
Nunes and O’Reilly Set to Step In
Matheus Nunes is tipped to continue filling in at right-back, while 19-year-old Nico O’Reilly has quietly impressed in recent weeks and may hold his place on the left. His composure and tactical maturity have offered a much-needed solution in the absence of more experienced names.
Midfield Muscle and Forward Options
After a rare free week following the 0-0 draw with Manchester United, Kevin De Bruyne is expected to return to the starting XI. Omar Marmoush will likely continue to lead the line with Erling Haaland still sidelined, while Savinho could be drafted in should Guardiola shuffle his pack.
Foden and Grealish Concerns
Phil Foden and Jack Grealish, both involved in incidents with United fans at Old Trafford, are facing uncertainty. Guardiola admitted that the pair “don’t feel good”.
Predicted Man City XI vs Crystal Palace
Ederson; Nunes, Dias, Gvardiol, O’Reilly; Kovacic, Gundogan; Savinho, De Bruyne, Doku; Marmoush
Injured: Akanji, Stones, Ake, Rodri, Haaland
Kick-off: 12:30pm BST, Saturday, April 12, 2025
