Manchester City have been dealt a significant injury setback with confirmation that summer signing Rayan Aït-Nouri will be sidelined for around five weeks due to an ankle problem. The development comes as Pep Guardiola grapples with mounting absences across his squad in the opening stages of the new campaign.
Fresh Injury Concerns for Pep Guardiola
Aït-Nouri’s absence follows injuries to Omar Marmoush and John Stones, leaving Guardiola short of options ahead of a demanding run of fixtures. Marmoush has been ruled out with a knee injury, while Stones withdrew from England duty during the international break. The Algerian defender now joins the list of absentees, compounding City’s early-season challenges.
Aït-Nouri’s Role and Impact
Signed from Wolves in the summer, Aït-Nouri quickly established himself as a key figure in Guardiola’s plans. His offensive contribution from the left-back position added a fresh dimension to City’s tactical play, making his absence a considerable tactical blow at a time when the manager is seeking defensive stability.
Fixtures to Be Missed
The 23-year-old’s expected five-week absence, reported by Fabrizio Romano, rules him out of crucial clashes before the October international break. Among the fixtures City must navigate without him are:
- Manchester United (H), Premier League
- Napoli (H), UEFA Champions League
- Arsenal (A), Premier League
- Huddersfield Town (A), Carabao Cup
- Burnley (H), Premier League
- AS Monaco (A), UEFA Champions League
- Brentford (A), Premier League
Possible Return
If recovery progresses as planned, Aït-Nouri could return after the October break, potentially in time for key fixtures against Borussia Dortmund, Villarreal, Aston Villa, and Liverpool across competitions.
Defensive Alternatives
Guardiola is expected to call upon Joško Gvardiol, Nathan Aké, and academy graduate Nico O’Reilly to cover the gap at left-back. Rico Lewis, fresh from signing a long-term contract, may also be given opportunities in hybrid defensive roles as the squad adapts to the setback.
FAQs
How long will Rayan Aït-Nouri be out for?
Aït-Nouri is expected to miss around five weeks of action due to an ankle injury.
Which games will he miss?
The defender will be unavailable for matches against Manchester United, Napoli, Arsenal, and several other crucial fixtures in September and October.
Who can replace him at left-back?
Joško Gvardiol and Nathan Aké are likely candidates, while Rico Lewis and Nico O’Reilly could also feature.
When could he return?
He is projected to return after the October international break, potentially in time for matches against Borussia Dortmund and Villarreal.
Conclusion
Rayan Aït-Nouri’s absence comes at a critical stage of the season as Manchester City prepare for a busy schedule across domestic and European competitions. With Guardiola already managing injuries elsewhere in the squad, the left-back’s setback is a stern test of the team’s depth and adaptability. Supporters will be hopeful of a swift recovery as City aim to maintain momentum in the title race and Champions League campaign.
