Chelsea get big boost ahead of Manchester City clash

Chelsea’s job against Manchester City significantly made easier following Pep Guardiola’s announcement.

West London club, Chelsea may be having a mixed start to the current season, but judging from their results against the top 6 sides this campaign, the Blues have managed to get some positive momentum going amidst the negatives.

The Blues’ side led by manager, Mauricio Pochettino have been able to draw Merseyside club, Liverpool, North London rival, Arsenal and even ended the unbeaten run of Tottenham Hotspur this season to leave Manchester City top of the table.

Ahead of the coming weekend, Chelsea face a more uphill task as they are set to face current league leaders and Premier League champions, Manchester City, and as it turns out, they may have the advantage heading into the game this time around.

Manchester City’s head coach, Pep Guardiola, following the Champions League win versus Young Boys delivered a rather unfortunate news for the club’s supporters.

In his post-match press conference, he revealed that defender John Stones will be sidelined for an extended period due to a muscular injury. This injury comes just ahead of a crucial Premier League clash against Chelsea scheduled for this weekend.

Stones picked up the injury during Manchester City’s recent Champions League match against Young Boys, which ended in a 3-0 victory for the Premier League champions. In that game, the English defender had to be substituted at halftime, with Nathan Ake taking his place.

Speaking after the Champions League encounter, Guardiola confirmed the extent of Stones’ injury and expressed his disappointment at the situation. Guardiola also provided an update on another key defender, Manuel Akanji.

The Manchester City manager stated,

“Manuel [Akanji] had a problem in the back, and when this happens, he is out. Unfortunately, John [Stones] is out again.

“I feel so sorry for him because he’s an incredible professional and committed, and he is a big loss for us. John is so important with what he does, but yeah, recover, the season is long, and [he] will be back soon.”