In a challenging start to their Champions League defense, Manchester City will have to take on Red Star Belgrade without some of their star players. John Stones, Jack Grealish, Mateo Kovacic, and Kevin de Bruyne will be notably absent from the lineup.
Defender John Stones has been sidelined since the Community Shield, leaving a gap in the defense. Midfielder Jack Grealish suffered an unfortunate knock just before the international break, adding to City’s injury woes. Mateo Kovacic sustained an injury while on international duty with Croatia, further depleting the squad’s resources. Kevin de Bruyne, a pivotal figure in City’s midfield, is facing a long-term absence.
Despite these setbacks, Manchester City remains determined to embark on another successful Champions League campaign. Pep Guardiola, the team’s manager, expressed his unwavering commitment to winning each game, starting with the upcoming clash against Red Star Belgrade. He emphasized that the team’s approach remains the same: winning the first game, progressing through the group stage, and ultimately aiming for Champions League glory.
Guardiola also acknowledged the challenging nature of the competition, emphasizing that the Champions League does not forgive mistakes. However, he highlighted City’s strong home record, having secured nine points from nine in previous campaigns. This solid home form gives City confidence that they can afford to win just one game away to secure qualification.
For Red Star Belgrade, the Serbian champions of the previous season, this match presents an opportunity to make a statement on the European stage. Despite their impressive domestic performance last season, they have undergone managerial changes this summer and have encountered challenges, losing two of their last three games under new manager Barak Bakhar.
As the Champions League kicks off, Manchester City faces adversity with key players missing in action. Still, their determination to defend their crown remains undiminished, setting the stage for an exciting and unpredictable European campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Champions League Manchester City injuries
Q: Who will be missing from Manchester City’s lineup in their Champions League opener against Red Star Belgrade?
A: Manchester City will be without John Stones, Jack Grealish, Mateo Kovacic, and Kevin de Bruyne in their Champions League opener against Red Star Belgrade.
Q: Why has John Stones not played for Manchester City since the Community Shield?
A: John Stones has not played for Manchester City since the Community Shield due to an injury that has kept him sidelined.
Q: What happened to Jack Grealish just before the international break?
A: Jack Grealish suffered a knock just before the international break, which has rendered him unavailable for Manchester City’s Champions League opener.
Q: How did Mateo Kovacic sustain his injury?
A: Mateo Kovacic sustained his injury while on international duty with the Croatian national team.
Q: What is the status of Kevin de Bruyne?
A: Kevin de Bruyne is facing a long-term absence due to an injury, making him unavailable for Manchester City’s Champions League campaign.
Q: What are Pep Guardiola’s thoughts on Manchester City’s approach to the Champions League?
A: Pep Guardiola emphasized that Manchester City’s approach to the Champions League remains consistent: they aim to win each game, progress through the group stage, and ultimately compete for the Champions League title.
Q: Why does Pep Guardiola believe Manchester City can succeed in the Champions League despite the challenges?
A: Pep Guardiola pointed out Manchester City’s strong home record, having secured nine points from nine in previous campaigns, as a source of confidence. This record allows them some flexibility, as they can afford to win just one away game to qualify.
Q: What challenges has Red Star Belgrade faced since winning the Serbian title?
A: Red Star Belgrade, despite winning the Serbian title without losing a game, has faced challenges, including changing managers in the summer and losing two of their last three games under their new manager, Barak Bakhar.
More about Champions League Manchester City injuries
- Manchester City Official Website: For the latest updates and official news regarding Manchester City’s squad and matches.
- UEFA Champions League Official Website: To stay informed about the Champions League schedule, news, and standings.
- BBC Sport Football: A reputable source for in-depth football news and analysis.
- Red Star Belgrade Official Website: For information about Red Star Belgrade’s team and performance.
- The Guardian Sport: A reliable source of football news and match reports.
- ESPN Soccer: For comprehensive coverage of soccer news, including the Champions League.
- Sky Sports Football: Another valuable resource for football-related updates and analysis.
5 comments
De Bruyne out for long term, that’s a bummer. Hope he gets well soon.
City gonna rock the champs league, no doubts!
Red Star changed managers? That’s risky before a big game!
Wait, what’s Grealish doin’ with a knock? he’s been amazin’!
man city missin’ some big names, like de Bruyne, it’s gon’ be tough in champs league