Pep Guardiola has now provided an update on John Stones at Manchester City.
The Spaniard spoke about the England international in his press conference earlier on Friday.
So, what did Pep Guardiola say about John Stones? Let’s take a look…
What Pep Guardiola said about John Stones
Well, it is – fortunately – good news.
Guardiola has been without Stones since the 3-0 win over BSC Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League back on Wednesday 7th November, as the Manchester City No.5 struggled with a thigh problem.
Now – however – the £47.5m man is very close to a return.
The Manchester Evening News quote Guardiola as saying: “Much better, close to coming back. He’ll be with us, I don’t know if he’ll play (against Tottenham) but he’ll be there.”
Stones was on the bench as Manchester City fought back to record a 3-2 win over RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, but was not risked.
That was a sensible decision from Guardiola with qualification from Group G already secured, and now, it sounds as if the 29-year-old is almost back to full fitness.
Stones has missed a total of ten games due to injury this season, while he was only fit enough for the bench on five occasions.
John Stones return is hugely significant for Manchester City
The treble winners have coped well without Stones – as you would expect with so many other world class players at the Etihad Stadium.
However, the Barnsley-born maestro adds another dimension to Guardiola’s side, thanks to his expertise at playing the hybrid role between defence and midfield.
Stones arguably pushed Manchester City towards the treble last season with his immense effectiveness in that unique position – which Guardiola said Josko Gvardiol could do one day – so his return to action should provide the Citizens with more assurance in midfield.
Hopefully, the Manchester City No.5 can avoid another setback, and stay fit for the remainder of the 2023/24 campaign.
