Manchester City's injury crisis continues to test the depth of Pep Guardiola's squad, with key players still on the sidelines as they chase silverware on multiple fronts. The latest updates on Rodri, Nathan Ake, John Stones and Oscar Bobb have left City fans with a mixture of concern and cautious optimism.

Nathan Ake's season has been punctuated by frustrating injury setbacks and the latest blow could see him sidelined yet again. The Dutch defender, who recently returned to action, was forced off at half-time in City's 3-1 FA Cup win over Plymouth after struggling towards the end of the first half.

Guardiola did little to downplay the concerns in his post-match press conference, admitting that City’s defensive situation is far from ideal:

“Now again we have central defenders out. I think we are going to miss Nathan. I’m so grateful to the club for bringing Vitor and Khusanov to the club otherwise we would not have any chance to qualify for the Champions League next season or fight for the FA Cup; we would have just Ruben.”

The exact length of Ake's absence remains uncertain, and with Manuel Akanji also sidelined, Guardiola has once again been left scrambling for defensive solutions.

Potential Return Date: Unknown

John Stones' injury woes continued after he limped off during Manchester City's Champions League clash with Real Madrid. The England international appeared to pull a muscle while attempting a pass and required immediate treatment before being substituted.

Guardiola has since provided an update, confirming that Stones will not require surgery but is expected to be sidelined for an extended period.

“No, no surgery. No,” Guardiola said. “He can be recovered during eight to ten weeks without surgery.”

With City entering a crucial period of the season, Stones' absence is a huge blow. His versatility and ability to play in the middle of the park has been a crucial part of Guardiola's tactical set-up, and replacing him will not be easy.

Potential Return Date: May 2025

Oscar Bobb was expected to play a bigger role this season, but a broken leg suffered before the start of the campaign slowed his progress. Although he resumed training in January, setbacks have kept him out of the matchday squad. However, Guardiola recently sounded a more positive note.

“I think yesterday we spoke with the doctors, he feels really good, much better since he came back.”

The City boss highlighted how the young winger's inability to run without discomfort had led to a stop-start recovery, but he now appears to be on the verge of a return. If the final stages of his rehabilitation go smoothly, Bobb could make an impact in the final stages of the season.

Potential Return Date: Soon

Rodri's injury has arguably had the biggest impact on City's season. The midfield linchpin underwent surgery on a serious knee injury sustained against Arsenal in September, and it was initially feared that his campaign was effectively over. However, recent updates suggest that a return may not be out of the question.

Guardiola's tone when discussing Rodri's fitness ahead of City's FA Cup tie against Plymouth suggested a shift in expectations.

Guardiola told ITV Sport. “Of course we need fresh legs and players to come on the team. This is (the full squad) except Oscar Bobb and Rodri, that they are close both to come back.”

Although a definite timetable has yet to be confirmed, Guardiola's words suggest that the Spaniard could be back in action this season, providing a massive boost to City's title ambitions.

Potential Return Date: Unknown

Manchester City's pursuit of silverware is being hampered by a growing injury list, particularly at the back. With Ake, Stones and Akanji all sidelined, Guardiola will be forced to improvise as the fixtures pile up. However, the potential return of Rodri and Bobb offers some hope as City look to get through this difficult period while still challenging for major honours.