Manchester City coach, Pep Guardiola has declared a state of emergency concerning the team’s injury crisis ahead of the clash against Bournemouth.
The defending champions went into Wednesday’s League Cup tie at Tottenham without six first-team players, with Rodri, Oscar Bobb, Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, Jeremy Doku and Jack Grealish all injured.
Manuel Akanji suffered a calf injury in the buildup to the encounter, while Savinho was stretchered off in the second half to add to their injury woes.
Guardiola revealed that he had just 13 players available for the clash against Bournemouth on Wednesday.
He has now revealed that due to the numerous injuries, he will be forced to play academy players.
Guardiola said: “We have a lot (of injuries) in certain departments and certain positions, but it is what it is, I am pretty sure, like I have said many times to the team, ‘Guys, try not to feel sorry for ourselves.
“We are not the only team in football to have injuries. We have a lot, but it is what it is. We concern ourselves. The challenge is we will play with 11 players.
“But at certain moments, I remember Liverpool had a lot of injuries and they struggled. But we have to adapt and focus on tomorrow.
“We are using them because we are in an emergency in certain positions, but yes, some of them we trust them, like in the past, to help us.
“That is why the academy is there. Not ideal, but when the situation demands. Yes, we don’t have another option.”
He also confirmed that the club will not go into the transfer market in January because of the injury crisis.
Guardiola said: “When we are all together, the squad is enough,” he said. “It is complete. It is nice. It is top. But then everybody is completely focused and fit.”
Manchester City are currently top the Premier League table with one point ahead of Liverpool.
Man City Injury Crisis Worrisome-Guardiola is first published on The Whistler Newspaper