Manchester City left back Benjamin Mendy has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and will be out for several months.
The news will be a blow to City who will have feared the worst after the popular defender was injured following a challenge by Andros Townsend during City’s 5-0 win against Crystal Palace last weekend.
City boss Pep Guardiola had reportedly sent the 23-year-old to Barcelona to see a trusted doctor there but Mendy revealed the bad news on Twitter today and City confirmed the injury blow.
Mendy tweeted: “Bad news guys ll be joining Injury FC on loan for a couple monthes with ruptured ACL… but will be back soon & stronger hopefully ”
https://twitter.com/benmendy23/status/913465125620862976
Mendy, who is popular on social media, also replied to messages of support from the Twitter fanbase, adding:
“Thank you all for the warm messages since the game ❤️ really appreciate. We keep in touch all behind my #SharkTeam now #cmoncity”
https://twitter.com/benmendy23/status/913465645869748224
Pep Guardiola will now almost certainly have to dip into the transfer market at the first available opportunity in January following the news that might see Mendy not play again this season.
Mendy was City’s only recognised left footed full back, and although Danilo can play there he hasn’t looked as expansive as the Frenchman when played there.
Fabian Delph, a midfielder by trade, has volunteered to help out in any way he can and filled in for Mendy during City’s 2-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk on Tuesday.
His recent performances have culminated in a recall to England duty in Gareth Southgate’s latest squad announcement.
During his post-match press conference after the Shakhtar game Guardiola also hinted that Ukraine midfielder Oleksandr Zinchenko could also fill in during domestic competitions before the transfer window opens.
Zinchenko isn’t eligible in the Champions League because of the tighter regulations on player eligibility but may get his chance to impress in the Premier League and cup competitions having obtained a work permit.
Guardiola said: “If Mendy will be out for a long time [Zinchenko] could help out in the local competitions. He could play there and will help us double up on that position.
“He’s beloved in the locker room because he’s a respectful guy and we can count on him.”