Manchester City subject to nightmare news with veteran defender out long-term
By Evan Curnew
Despite tons of action at the top of the Premier League table, Manchester City has unsurprisingly found themselves again in first place. While it is too early to say they will comfortably walk the league as they did not do that last year, City will always be a powerhouse in the Premier League.
Anyone who’s watched Manchester City play knows Pep Guardiola is very creative with where his players are deployed. The Spanish manager is unafraid to have fullbacks or centre-backs push into the midfield as they overload the opponent’s half. One player who has flawlessly transitioned into a ‘roamer’ for Pep Guardiola is John Stones. The Englishmen, who has played centre-back for his entire professional career, has recently been played as a defensive midfielder with City. While the formation may vary, it usually allows Pep Guardiola to set up a back three with Stones playing just ahead.
After dealing with a hip injury in August, Stones returned to the City team on October 8th in a 1-0 loss to Arsenal. Six games after his return, Stones had to come off at half-time against BSC Young Boys in the Champions League. Pep Guardiola revealed post-match that, unfortunately for Stones, he will be out for an extended period of time [via Omar Garrick of The Athletic].
"“I feel so sorry for him. It’s a big loss for us. John is so important for what he does. But recover and the season is long; he will be back stronger. I think he will be out for a while.”"
The former Everton centre-back played an important part in Manchester City’s treble last season. After dealing with injuries, Stones returned at a vital time near the end of the Premier League campaign as City leapfrogged Arsenal for the title. He also started and went 82 minutes in the Champions League final against Inter.