Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has said defender John Stones faces a long spell on the sidelines and may have to undergo surgery in the next few days

Manchester City centre back John Stones could be facing surgery and a long layoff, said coach Pep Guardiola, who reiterated his belief on Friday that the crowded game schedule is to blame for mounting injuries.

It has been a tough start for Manchester City in the Champions League playoffs against Real Madrid. Shortly after Kylian Mbappé gave the hosts a 1-0 lead in the fourth minute, City central defender John Stones had to be substituted because of an apparent knee injury.