Manchester City’s Midfield Crisis Deepens: Guardiola’s New Plan After Foden, Kovacic & Rodri Injuries

Guardiola Faces Midfield Crisis as Manchester City Lose Three Key Players Ahead of Season Opener

Manchester City’s preparations for the new Premier League campaign have been dealt a heavy blow, with Pep Guardiola confirming that three of his most important midfielders—Phil Foden, Mateo Kovačić, and Rodri—are all sidelined through injury. The revelation, made during Guardiola’s pre-season press conference, has sparked growing concern among City supporters as the champions face the daunting prospect of beginning the season without the heart of their midfield engine.

Rodri’s Lingering Absence

Rodri’s groin injury, already a cause for anxiety among City fans, has been compounded by news that his recovery will take longer than anticipated. The Spaniard, widely regarded as one of the best holding midfielders in world football, is expected to miss at least the first three league fixtures. His absence leaves a glaring hole in City’s system, as he is the player most trusted to shield the defense, break up opposition attacks, and dictate the tempo in possession. Without him, Guardiola’s team often struggles to maintain their usual control in matches.

Kovačić Blow Deepens the Problem

Initially, Mateo Kovačić’s Achilles issue was believed to be a minor knock, but Guardiola confirmed that the Croatian international will not return until late September or October. Signed to add depth and experience to City’s midfield, Kovačić was seen as the natural stopgap while Rodri recovered. His energy, ball-carrying ability, and defensive awareness were supposed to ease the transition, but his setback now leaves the manager scrambling for alternatives.

Foden’s Knock Complicates Matters

As if losing Rodri and Kovačić was not bad enough, Guardiola also revealed that Phil Foden is carrying a knock that will rule him out of the early games. Foden’s versatility and attacking spark have been crucial to City’s forward play, and his ability to drop deep and create from midfield often adds an extra dimension to their attack. Without him, City’s creativity and unpredictability could be stifled at a time when early-season momentum is vital.

Guardiola’s Dilemma

Speaking candidly to reporters, Guardiola outlined the current situation:

“We have three. Kova is injured until September or October, Rodri is coming back after six months and [we have] Nico [González].”

The manager admitted that while players like İlkay Gündoğan and Tijjani Reijnders could fill in, they are more naturally suited to advanced roles rather than the defensive responsibilities of the No. 6 position. This tactical imbalance leaves City vulnerable, particularly against opponents who thrive on counterattacks.

The Nico González Opportunity

With senior players sidelined, attention now turns to Nico González. Nicknamed “mini-Rodri” by Guardiola because of his composure and positional awareness, González may be thrust into a role far bigger than expected. After limited appearances last season and a dip in confidence, this could be a career-defining chance for the young midfielder to step up and cement his place in Guardiola’s plans.

A Tough Opening Schedule

City’s first three fixtures—against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Tottenham Hotspur, and Brighton & Hove Albion—are anything but easy. Each side poses unique challenges, and the lack of experienced midfield anchors could leave City exposed. The pressure will be immense on the makeshift midfield to deliver stability while Guardiola seeks tactical solutions.

Guardiola’s Tactical Flexibility

The Catalan coach, renowned for his adaptability, may be forced into early-season experimentation. Deploying Gündoğan or Reijnders in deeper roles, tweaking his formation, or leaning more heavily on City’s wide players are all options on the table. What remains clear, however, is that Guardiola will need every ounce of his tactical ingenuity to navigate this difficult period.

Conclusion

For Manchester City, the midfield crisis could either derail their strong start to the season or provide a platform for new heroes to emerge. Much depends on how quickly Rodri, Kovačić, and Foden recover, and whether González and others can rise to the occasion in their absence.

As Guardiola himself admitted, this is one of his toughest early-season challenges in years. The spotlight will now be firmly on his ability to adapt, motivate, and innovate as City aim to stay competitive at the very top.