Man City defender Gvardiol needs to undergo shin surgery

Manchester City have confirmed that defender Josko Gvardiol suffered a broken leg during Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Chelsea at the Etihad Stadium.

Gvardiol was one of two City centre-backs to go off injured in the second half, along with Ruben Dias, before Enzo Fernandez scored an injury-time equalizer for the visitors.

The draw puts City in second place, six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.

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City, who announced that Gvardiol had suffered a tibial fracture to his right leg, added in a statement issued on Monday: “The defender will undergo surgery later this week and assessment remains ongoing to determine the full extent of the injury and the expected prognosis.”

Before the extent of Croatian international Gvardiol’s injury was confirmed, City manager Pep Guardiola said it «doesn’t look good» for either player.

The extent of Dias’ injury has yet to be made public.

Their absences add to City’s defense problems, with John Stones out with a thigh injury last month and Rayan Ait-Nouri away with Algeria at the Africa Cup of Nations.

City midfielder Nico Gonzalez also missed the game against Chelsea and Guardiola is also without Savinho, Oscar Bobb, Mateo Kovacic and Omar Marmoush for Wednesday’s match at home to Brighton.

Better news for City came with the return of Rodri, who played the full 90 minutes against Chelsea in his first start since October.

The influential midfielder suffered several setbacks, the latest a hamstring problem, as he tried to recover from the serious knee injury that ruled him out for much of last season.

“It’s been a terrible, terrible time for me,” said the Spain international. “Everything that is happening now is a gift. Every minute I am on the field is a joy for me.

“Thanks to God for giving me this second chance, for allowing me to enjoy my profession and regain my smile.”

Published on January 6, 2026