Man City injury update: Haaland, Stones and Dias latest news

Manchester City head into a defining week of the season with fitness concerns across the squad — particularly at the back — as Pep Guardiola prepares for a must-win Champions League night.

Manchester City were left in a precarious position after their shock defeat to Bodø/Glimt, slipping to 11th in the Champions League league phase. Victory over Galatasaray at the Etihad is now essential if City are to avoid the play-off round.

Concerns were heightened last weekend when Erling Haaland was surprisingly left on the bench against Wolves — a decision Guardiola was quick to explain.

Below is the latest on City’s injury situation and potential return dates.

Haaland’s omission from the starting XI against Wolves raised eyebrows, but Guardiola confirmed the decision was purely physical rather than injury-related.

“There are a lot of games,” Guardiola explained. “I want to clean his mind and his body a little bit. The selection is always because I believe it is the best for today.”

The striker came on late but did not score, suggesting the move was about load management rather than concern.

Potential return date: January 28 vs Galatasaray (H)

Joško Gvardiol has been sidelined since suffering a broken tibia against Chelsea on New Year’s Day.

City confirmed surgery but have not provided a concrete recovery timeline. Guardiola has already hinted the defender will be out for a prolonged period.

“Josko, no,” Guardiola said when asked about short-term defensive returns.

Potential return date: Unknown

Rúben Dias was withdrawn late on against Chelsea and later diagnosed with a hamstring injury.

Guardiola admitted the defender’s condition was “not good” but has since suggested a return is not far away, with February the realistic target.

Potential return date: February 11 vs Fulham (H)

John Stones has not featured since December’s chaotic 5-4 win at Fulham.

Initially ruled out for “many months” with a thigh injury, Guardiola has recently sounded more optimistic, admitting there is “hope” of a return — though no firm date has been set.

Potential return date: Unknown

Savinho has been absent since the goalless draw with Sunderland after picking up a quad injury.

His absence forced City into the market, leading to the signing of Antoine Semenyo. Guardiola previously suggested Savinho would be sidelined for at least six weeks.

Potential return date: February 2026

Nico González impressed earlier in the season while deputising for Rodri but is now struggling with an unresolved injury.

A premature return worsened the issue, though Guardiola has hinted the midfielder could be back in contention this week.

Potential return date: January 28 vs Galatasaray (H)

Oscar Bobb has not trained since being withdrawn early against Brentford in the Carabao Cup.

He was expected back earlier this month, but Guardiola confirmed the setback was more serious than first thought. A return in early February is possible — if he remains at the club.

Potential return date: February 1 vs Tottenham (A)