Pep Guardiola Confirms Injury Boost as Two Man City Defenders Cleared to Play Ahead of Fulham Clash

Manchester City have received a timely double boost ahead of a busy run of fixtures, with Pep Guardiola confirming that young defender Abdukodir Khusanov has avoided serious injury and that John Stones is edging closer to a long-awaited return.

The updates come after a worrying moment during City’s recent victory over Liverpool, when Khusanov was forced off following a heavy collision with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. For a brief period, there were genuine fears that City’s defensive options could be further stretched. Instead, Guardiola now finds himself with welcome choices at the back as his side prepare to face Fulham on Wednesday night.

Khusanov scare ends in relief for City

Khusanov’s injury moment was one that made supporters hold their breath. The 21-year-old Uzbek defender had thrown himself into a last-ditch challenge to block a shot from Cody Gakpo, showing the bravery and commitment Guardiola values so highly. In doing so, he took a knee to the face from Donnarumma as the goalkeeper rushed out, leaving Khusanov on the ground and medical staff quickly signalling for a substitution.

Given the nature of the collision, concussion fears were immediate. Khusanov was withdrawn straight away, and there was concern that City could lose another defensive option at a crucial stage of the season. However, Guardiola moved quickly to reassure fans.

Asked directly about Khusanov’s condition, the City manager was clear and calm in his response. “Yeah, good. He’s able to play,” Guardiola said, confirming the defender is fit and available for selection against Fulham.

That news will come as a relief not just because of the injury itself, but because of what Khusanov represents for City’s future.

A tough start, but Guardiola’s long-term belief

Khusanov arrived in Manchester last January and, like many young players moving to the Premier League, his early months have not been entirely smooth. Adjusting to the pace, physicality and tactical demands of English football is never easy, especially for a defender still learning the language and culture.

Guardiola has been open about those challenges, but his comments also reveal a deep belief in the player’s potential. “Maybe he had a difficult start here, but he’s still only 21, and then there’s the language barrier,” the City boss explained.

In typical Guardiola fashion, the praise was both thoughtful and slightly humorous. “I admit, he doesn’t speak like William Shakespeare, but he understands what we want and every time it is getting better and better,” he said.

Beyond the jokes, Guardiola highlighted what really matters to him: decision-making and intelligence on the pitch. “He is so intelligent. He always takes good decisions,” Guardiola added.

For a young central defender, that is perhaps the highest compliment a manager like Guardiola can give. City’s system demands calmness under pressure, confidence in possession and the ability to read danger early. According to Guardiola, Khusanov is already showing those qualities.

“Don’t confuse about Khusa, on the ball he is getting better. I think he can improve, he is open-minded,” he continued. “I said recently that City have a player for many, many years.”

Those words suggest that Khusanov is seen not just as squad depth, but as a long-term piece of City’s defensive puzzle.

Stones closing in on return after long absence

Alongside the positive Khusanov update, Guardiola also offered encouraging news on John Stones, who has been sidelined for months with a hamstring injury.

Stones has not featured in a competitive match since December 2, when he played 27 minutes in a dramatic 5-4 defeat of Fulham. Since then, City have had to cope without one of their most versatile and experienced defenders, a player who can operate both in central defence and midfield.

Asked about Stones, as well as injured wingers Jérémy Doku and Savinho, Guardiola delivered a short but promising update. “John is back. He is fit, I would say, so yes, everyone is OK.”

While Stones may not be ready to start immediately, his return to full fitness is significant. Even if he only makes the squad against Fulham, his presence adds leadership and tactical flexibility. City have often looked more balanced when Stones is available, especially in big matches where his calm passing and positional awareness are crucial.

Defensive options growing at the right time

With Khusanov fit and Stones nearing full match sharpness, Guardiola’s defensive choices are beginning to improve. Khusanov could slot back into central defence alongside established names like Rúben Dias, or potentially partner Marc Guéhi if rotation is required.

For City, this comes at an important moment. As the season enters its decisive phase, squad depth and fitness can make the difference between success and frustration. Injuries have disrupted Guardiola’s plans in recent months, but signs now point towards stability returning.

Khusanov’s recovery also underlines his growing importance within the squad. His willingness to put his body on the line against Liverpool showed character, and Guardiola’s public backing suggests trust is building fast.

As for Stones, his return could quietly be one of City’s biggest boosts in the weeks ahead. With key matches looming, having experienced players available again may prove decisive.

For now, Guardiola can prepare for Fulham with a little more confidence, knowing that a worrying injury scare has passed and that reinforcements are finally on the way.