Manchester City assistant manager Pep Lijnders has delivered an encouraging update on the fitness of key defenders John Stones and Ruben Dias, confirming both players are progressing well from their respective injury setbacks and could feature in this weekend's crucial Premier League encounter with Chelsea.
Latest on Defensive Duo's Recovery Timelines
Speaking to the media while standing in for the suspended Pep Guardiola, Lijnders revealed that neither Stones nor Dias is expected to face extended periods on the sidelines. "Ruben [Dias] got a knock [on Friday] in the last minutes of training," Lijnders explained. "We are assessing it. I think he had a scan again so we have to see." Regarding Stones, he added, "John [Stones], to be honest, I think he will not be long-term but he was not available [last Saturday]."
Recent Absences and International Withdrawals
Both defenders were absent from Manchester City's emphatic 4-0 FA Cup quarter-final victory over Liverpool on Saturday, though Stones was named among the substitutes. Dias has been unavailable since being substituted during City's 2-1 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid on March 17, missing Portugal's international fixtures as a result. Stones, meanwhile, withdrew from England duty after picking up a minor issue and has been on the bench for City's last two matches, including the Carabao Cup final triumph on March 22.
Stones last featured in the starting lineup during City's 3-1 FA Cup win over Newcastle on March 7, completing the full ninety minutes. The 31-year-old centre-back will be eager to demonstrate his fitness in the coming weeks to secure a place in Thomas Tuchel's England squad ahead of future international competitions.
Broader Squad Concerns and Season Objectives
The potential returns of Stones and Dias would provide a significant boost to Guardiola, who continues to manage multiple injury concerns within his squad. Defender Josko Gvardiol remains sidelined long-term, having not played since January's league draw with Chelsea. Guardiola has previously expressed hope that the versatile Croatian could return before season's end, with Gvardiol himself focusing on rehabilitation to be ready for the 2026 World Cup.
Manchester City's Pursuit of Silverware
Having already secured the Carabao Cup this season, Manchester City remain active on multiple fronts. They are scheduled to face Championship side Southampton in the next round of the FA Cup and maintain an outside chance in the Premier League title race, though they must overcome a nine-point deficit to leaders Arsenal with just eight matches remaining.
The availability of Stones and Dias for Sunday's Premier League clash against Chelsea could prove pivotal as City aim to maintain pressure at the top of the table while balancing their cup commitments. Their defensive solidity will be crucial during the final stretch of what promises to be a demanding season across all competitions.
