Man City near full strength as Arsenal battle injury crisis in title race

City’s fitness advantage in title race

As the Premier League title race between Manchester City and Arsenal intensifies, the two rivals are entering the decisive phase of the 2025/2026 season in starkly different physical condition. City are close to full strength, with only Josko Gvardiol sidelined long-term after fracturing his right tibia three months ago. According to Croatian outlet Sportske Novosti, Gvardiol is expected back in May — in time for City’s final league games and the World Cup 2026.

Rúben Dias missed the Carabao Cup final due to a hamstring issue, while John Stones picked up a minor calf strain during England training. However, both are expected to return soon, leaving Pep Guardiola with an almost fully available squad ahead of their trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea. This contrasts sharply with Arsenal’s mounting injury list, which could severely impact their quadruple ambitions.

Arsenal’s extensive injury list

Up to a dozen Arsenal players were absent from Friday’s training session, highlighting the scale of their medical issues. Long-term absentee Mikel Merino remains out and is unlikely to feature before June, potentially returning in time for the World Cup. More pressing are the 11 senior players currently sidelined, including key figures like Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhães, and Martin Ødegaard.

All withdrew from international duty due to injuries: Saliba with an ankle problem, Gabriel with a knee issue, and Trossard with a hip complaint. Saka and Rice joined England late before pulling out with knocks. Eberechi Eze faces a race to be fit for the 19 April clash at the Etihad, while Piero Hincapié and Noni Madueke are both ruled out for the FA Cup quarter-final against Southampton. Hincapié’s hamstring injury is described as serious by Arteta, while Madueke’s knee issue could see him return within days.

Crucial returns and upcoming fixtures

Despite the crisis, there is hope for Arsenal. Arteta confirmed that Jurrien Timber and Martin Ødegaard are in contention for the Southampton FA Cup tie. Their return would boost a side still competing in the Champions League, FA Cup, and Premier League. The next few weeks will test Arsenal’s squad depth like never before, with key matches against Sporting and Bournemouth on the horizon.

Football analysts suggest: 'Arsenal’s title hopes may hinge not on tactics, but on who walks out of the treatment room first.'

With City maintaining momentum and fitness, the physical disparity could prove decisive. As the calendar turns to April, every training update will carry the weight of a potential season-defining moment.