Manchester City are facing an injury crisis

The team that started the 2024-25 campaign with a 10-match unbeaten run were reduced to consecutive losses to end the calendar year, with four of their most crucial players sidelined.

Defensive frailties and missing direction

Greenwood has been a cornerstone of City's defence, providing steady leadership that has been the foundation of their backline since her arrival from Lyon in 2020. But after being stretchered off against St. Pölten, the team now face yet another significant gap.

One return, two to go

The absence of Hemp, meanwhile, has left a significant void in the attack, resulting in a noticeable dip in clinical finishing, creativity and fluidity. While players like summer signing Aoba Fujino and rising talent Jess Park have stepped into the role, there's been a noticeable lack of cohesion.

The Kelly dilemma

Around 2½ years ago, Chloe Kelly slotted home the winning goal of the 2022 European Championship to give England their first major title since the men's 1966 World Cup. Now, the 26-year-old is confined to the bench, making just one league start in the first 10 games, and she failed to even make the squad list for the game against Barcelona.