Manchester City have been dealt a fresh injury setback as Pep Guardiola confirmed that midfielder Mateo Kovacic will be sidelined for an extended period due to an ankle problem.
Mateo Kovacic Set To Miss Months With Ankle Problem
The Croatian international missed City’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium, where Erling Haaland scored twice to help the champions secure all three points.
However, Guardiola’s post-match update brought worrying news for City supporters.
“Kova will be out for a while,” Guardiola told reporters after the game as reported by the Sports Mole.
“He still has a problem with his ankle — there’s a little calcification there. We’ll have to wait for him until the later part of the season.”
The 30-year-old has been struggling with ankle discomfort for several weeks, and this latest update means Guardiola will have to navigate the coming fixtures with limited midfield options.
Kovacic has often been used as cover for Rodri, who himself has faced fitness issues this season.
The Spaniard was an unused substitute against Bournemouth and has started only six matches in the 2025–26 campaign.
In his absence, young midfielder Nico Gonzalez has been filling in, impressing with his energy and passing, though he lacks Rodri’s control and presence.
Bernardo Silva also partnered Gonzalez in midfield against Bournemouth but struggled to maintain stability in the middle of the park.
Guardiola may now be forced to rotate more frequently or adjust his tactical setup as the busy winter schedule approaches.
City’s injury concerns extend beyond midfield, with doubts remaining about their attacking depth.
Haaland has scored 13 of the team’s 18 Premier League goals this season, and any setback for the Norwegian could prove costly in their title chase.
With Arsenal leading the table and Liverpool close behind, Guardiola might consider strengthening his squad in the January transfer window to maintain City’s push for another Premier League crown.
