Defensive Crisis Deepens as Vice-Captain Joins Gvardiol and Stones on Sidelines.

Rúben Dias hamstring injury Manchester City

Manchester City have suffered another devastating injury setback, with key defender Rúben Dias ruled out for four to six weeks due to a hamstring problem sustained in the 1-1 draw against Chelsea on January 4, 2026.

Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed the diagnosis ahead of Wednesday’s match against Brighton: “It’s hamstring, four to six weeks.”

The Portuguese vice-captain was substituted late in the game after signalling discomfort, compounding an already severe defensive crisis at the Etihad.

This comes on top of Josko Gvardiol‘s confirmed tibial fracture requiring surgery – potentially sidelining him for months – and John Stones‘ ongoing long-term absence.

City have moved quickly for cover, recalling young centre-back Max Alleyne from Watford, while Nathan Aké and Abdukodir Khusanov are expected to step up.

The timing is brutal with a packed January schedule, including the Manchester derby, Carabao Cup semi-final, and Champions League fixtures.

Guardiola admitted concerns over squad depth but vowed to find solutions, praising the recalled Alleyne and returning players.

Dias, a cornerstone of City’s recent successes, will be a huge miss as they aim to close the gap at the top of the Premier League.