John Stones May Require Surgery After Injury Against Real Madrid, Confirms Pep Guardiola
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that defender John Stones may need surgery following an injury sustained during the team’s recent clash against Real Madrid. The England international limped off the pitch in the second half of the Champions League encounter, which ended in a 1-1 draw at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Stones, who has been a crucial part of City’s defense this season, was visibly in discomfort after a challenge and was replaced by Manuel Akanji. Guardiola revealed in his post-match comments that the initial diagnosis suggests a serious injury, and surgery is a potential option to resolve the issue.
“It’s a big blow for us,” Guardiola said. “John is an important player for us, and we need to assess the situation properly. The injury doesn’t look great, and surgery is something we’re considering. We’ll know more in the coming days.”
The 29-year-old has been a key figure for City, starting regularly in both Premier League and Champions League matches this season. Stones’ ability to play as both a center-back and a defensive midfielder has given Guardiola tactical flexibility, making his potential absence a significant concern for the squad.
If Stones requires surgery, he could face a lengthy recovery, which would sideline him for several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the injury. This would be a major setback for City, who are still in the hunt for multiple trophies, including the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
City will continue to monitor Stones’ condition closely, and a more definitive update is expected in the coming days. Fans will be hoping for the best possible outcome, as the club prepares for a busy fixture schedule in the coming weeks.
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