Manchester City Injury Update: Key Players Ederson, Haaland, Rodri, and Foden Facing Uncertainty After Crystal Palace Victory

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**Sport**

**Manchester City Injury Update: Ederson, Haaland, Rodri, and Foden’s Status Unclear Following Victory Over Crystal Palace**

**Published 7 minutes ago on April 13, 2025**

**By ENOCH**

 

Manchester City’s thrilling 5-2 win over Crystal Palace on April 12, 2025, at the Etihad Stadium was a statement performance, but it brought fresh injury concerns. As the club battles to stay in contention at the top of the Premier League table, setbacks involving vital players could prove costly. Here’s a detailed update on the fitness of goalkeeper Ederson, striker Erling Haaland, midfielder Rodri, and winger Phil Foden.

 

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**Ederson Injury: Worry Over Goalkeeper Options**

Concerns arose when Ederson had to come off due to an injury during the Palace clash. The Brazilian keeper has been a regular for City throughout the season, and his early exit sparked concerns. Although specific details remain unconfirmed, early assumptions point to a potential muscle issue or strain.

 

The medical team continues to monitor his condition, but no confirmed return date has been offered. Should Ederson be out for an extended period, Stefan Ortega will step in, though he’s lacked regular starts. A long-term absence would increase the burden on Ortega significantly.

 

**Expected Return: Not yet determined**

 

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**Phil Foden: Injury From Derby Keeps Him Sidelined**

Foden missed the game against Crystal Palace after sustaining a knock during the Manchester Derby. He had to leave that match limping, and although early assessments were optimistic, Guardiola later confirmed Foden wasn’t fit to play against Palace.

 

Guardiola referred to the injury as a “knock,” suggesting it may not be severe. Still, the team missed Foden’s creativity and width. There is hope he might be ready for City’s away fixture against Everton on April 19, 2025.

 

**Expected Return: April 19, 2025 (vs. Everton, away)**

 

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**Erling Haaland: Ongoing Recovery From Ankle Issue**

The powerful forward had to come off during the FA Cup quarterfinal against Bournemouth due to an ankle injury. Though initial signs were promising for a swift comeback, the full extent of the issue remains uncertain.

 

Preliminary medical checks have taken place, and the club awaits more detailed evaluations. With Haaland being central to City’s frontline, any extended layoff would be a major blow. Guardiola remains hopeful that the striker might return before the league campaign concludes.

 

**Expected Return: Unknown, potential return in May 2025**

 

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**Rodri: ACL Injury Impacts Midfield Depth**

Rodri has been dealing with a significant anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The Spanish midfielder is critical to Guardiola’s system, offering both defensive protection and transitional play. Unfortunately, this injury is expected to keep him out for the rest of the domestic season.

 

There was some optimism from Guardiola that Rodri might feature late in the campaign, potentially in the FA Cup final or Club World Cup, but recovery from such an injury often requires an extended timeframe. The midfield now faces a challenge in his absence.

 

**Expected Return: May/June 2025**

 

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**Nathan Ake: Surgery Required for Foot Injury**

Ake suffered a foot injury during the FA Cup fixture against Plymouth and had to leave the field. Scans revealed the need for surgical intervention, keeping him out for several weeks. His absence is particularly significant given the number of defensive injuries the team has endured.

 

A recovery time of approximately 11 weeks means Ake may not return until mid-May. He’ll likely miss crucial games in both the league and cup competitions, forcing Guardiola to reshuffle the defense.

 

**Expected Return: May 18, 2025 (vs. Bournemouth, home)**

 

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**Effect on City’s Tactical and Structural Balance**

The sidelining of Ederson, Haaland, Rodri, Foden, and Ake is bound to alter City’s usual rhythm. If Ederson is unavailable, Ortega will need to step into a high-pressure role, something he hasn’t experienced consistently.

 

Without Haaland, other attackers like Julian Álvarez and Riyad Mahrez may take on more responsibility, but the team could struggle to replicate Haaland’s goal-scoring impact.

 

Rodri’s absence significantly weakens midfield control. Guardiola may have to modify his tactics to compensate, possibly calling on Kalvin Phillips or Ilkay Gündogan for cover.

 

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**City’s Response: Adjustments and Possible Reinforcements**

Facing a growing injury list, Manchester City might have to consider transfer window options or rely on internal squad depth. Ortega could serve as a temporary solution in goal, though a more seasoned option might be explored if Ederson’s recovery is lengthy.

 

Up front, Haaland’s injury may prompt the club to seek forward reinforcements. In midfield, Guardiola could opt for a more physically resilient lineup, and in defense, Ake’s injury may push the club to secure cover.

 

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**Guardiola’s Tactical Flexibility Under Pressure**

Guardiola is renowned for his adaptability, and the current situation will likely test his strategic versatility. Missing key players like Ederson, Haaland, and Rodri could necessitate a more controlled, possession-focused approach. With challenges in multiple competitions, his management in the coming weeks will be critical.

 

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**What Lies Ahead for Manchester City?**

Despite the adversity, City remains stacked with talent and experience. Nonetheless, the loss of pivotal figures is a major concern. Guardiola will need to optimize his squad and possibly reinvent aspects of their system to stay competitive.

 

The club hopes its stars will recover in time to feature in season-defining moments, but until then, precise planning and squad rotation will be key in their ongoing push for titles.

 

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**Final Thoughts: A Season of Setbacks, but the Drive Continues**

City’s win over Crystal Palace demonstrated character, but the injury cloud hanging over the team can’t be ignored. With players like Ederson, Haaland, and Rodri facing uncertain timelines, the pressure is on the remaining squad and Guardiola’s leadership. Whether City can ride out this storm may determine how their season finishes—with silverware or disappointment.

 

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