Manchester City’s 3–0 win at Crystal Palace kept the champions firmly in the title race, cutting Arsenal’s lead to just two points. But while City impressed on the pitch, the victory came with a reminder of the injury strain affecting Pep Guardiola’s squad.
Jeremy Doku and John Stones were both ruled out before kick-off at Selhurst Park, joining long-term absentee Mateo Kovacic and the still-recovering Rodri, who has played just one minute for City since October.
With a Carabao Cup quarter-final against Brentford next and a Premier League meeting with West Ham to end the week, Guardiola could desperately use reinforcements. Here is the full breakdown of City’s latest injury news and projected return dates.
Jeremy Doku
Doku’s absence at Crystal Palace caught many by surprise. The Belgian winger, one of City’s most consistent starters this season, was left out entirely due to what Guardiola described as a “leg injury”. No additional details have been provided, though the early expectation is that the issue is minor.
City hope Doku can return later in the week as they prepare for a congested festive stretch.
Potential return date: Saturday, 20 December vs West Ham (H)
Rodri
Rodri has endured a frustrating two months. After suffering a hamstring injury against Brentford in early October, the midfielder made a brief return off the bench versus Bournemouth in November — only to experience further setbacks.
Guardiola continues to preach caution, but confirmed progress is being made: “He’s getting better… looking sharper and sharper.”
Although ruled out of the Palace game, City are weighing up whether the Brentford cup tie comes too soon. A league return against West Ham appears more realistic.
Potential return date: Saturday, 20 December vs West Ham (H)
John Stones
Stones missed the victory at Palace with a thigh issue but is not expected to be out long. Guardiola may opt to bring him back gradually, perhaps featuring him in the Carabao Cup to rebuild rhythm.
Given the heavy minutes played by Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias, having Stones available again will be crucial for rotation.
Potential return date: Wednesday, 17 December vs Brentford (H)
Mateo Kovacic
Kovacic remains City’s longest-term absentee after undergoing ankle surgery. He has not featured since the Champions League clash against Villarreal in October.
He posted an update on Instagram recently showing a protective boot and crutches, while Guardiola confirmed there is still “calcification” in the ankle as healing continues. There is optimism he will resume some form of training soon, but no return date has been formally set.
Potential return date: Unknown (out long-term)
City remain strong — but Rodri is the missing stabiliser
From our perspective covering City for several seasons, this squad has handled injuries better than most Premier League sides thanks to depth and tactical flexibility. But it’s worth questioning how long City can operate at this level without their midfield anchor.
Doku’s absence reduces their 1v1 threat, Stones’ unavailability limits build-up balance — yet neither loss shifts City’s identity the way Rodri’s does. His return could be the single most influential factor in the title race.
Cup rotation will be essential, but so will avoiding rushing key players back.
Key Insights
- Doku ruled out with a leg injury but return expected soon.
- Rodri progressing but still managed cautiously after setbacks.
- Stones dealing with a minor thigh issue; return imminent.
- Kovacic remains long-term absentee after ankle surgery.
- City depth strong but Rodri remains irreplaceable.
What’s Next
City host Brentford on Wednesday in the Carabao Cup quarter-final before returning to Premier League action against West Ham on Saturday. Guardiola will hope to welcome at least one of Doku, Stones or Rodri back during this decisive week.
👉 City fans — which returning player will have the biggest impact: Doku, Stones or Rodri?
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