Man City boss Pep Guardiola confirms quadruple blow amid Arsenal Premier League title race

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has confirmed his side have suffered a fresh injury setback ahead of this weekend's Premier League clash with Sheffield United.

The Citizens have suffered a number of injuries this season, all of which have played a part in their struggle in the first-half of the season. However, after winning the Club World Cup earlier this month, City have recovered.

Arsenal's 2-0 home defeat to West Ham means they are only three points behind the Gunners and an additional two behind league leaders Liverpool. This weekend they could close the gap at the top with a favourable fixture against Sheffield United.

However, Guardiola will be without four key players.Kevin De Bruyne (hamstring) has been sidelined since the first game of the season and Jeremy Doku's muscular injury has continued to keep him out.

There had been hope that striker Erling Haaland would return to the matchday squad against the Blades. Unfortunately, the league's top-scorer will have to wait to return to action.

Now, defender John Stones is facing another period on the sidelines. The England international was forced off with an ankle injury against Everton in midweek, sparking concerns over his availability.

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«Nothing changed from the last game,» Guardiola confirmed. «We have the same injuries plus John Stones.»

City's list of absent players will come as a boost for the Gunners. Mikel Arteta's men can extend their advantage over the world champions with three points against Fulham on New Year's Eve.

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