Savinho stretchered off in tears in Man City's Carabao Cup clash with Tottenham as Pep Guardiola faces significant injury concern

In his pre-match press conference, Guardiola had made it clear that his primary objective was to complete the match unscathed from potential fitness setbacks. However, the manager will be disappointed as the 20-year-old Brazilian picked up a serious injury and was in severe distress as the medical staff carried him from the pitch in the 63rd minute, sparking worries over his availability in the coming weeks.

The incident occurred as Savinho attempted to send in a cross but his landing appeared awkward, placing too much weight on his right ankle, which led to his collapse. After receiving treatment on the pitch for several minutes, City’s medical team decided to bring on a stretcher to remove him from the field. Academy graduate Jacob Wright was brought on to replace Savinho, marking yet another instance where City’s younger players are stepping up amid a rising injury toll.

The loss of Savinho is a significant blow to manager Guardiola, who already has several players out of action due to various injuries. Defender Manuel Akanji, originally selected to start the game, also had to settle for a bench role just before kickoff due to a calf strain suffered during the warm-up. Apart from Savinho, other wingers like Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku are also in doubt. Meanwhile, Kevin De Bruyne, Kyle Walker, and young forward Oscar Bobb, are also long-term absentees with Ballon d'Or winner Rodri set to miss the rest of the season.

Following the Bournemouth clash on Saturday in the Premier League, City’s schedule includes a high-stakes Champions League fixture against Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday, followed by another league game against Brighton & Hove Albion.