Manchester City faces a significant challenge in maintaining squad depth following a knee injury to Antoine Semenyo, who is expected to be sidelined for eight weeks. The injury compounds Manchester City’s difficulties ahead of their Champions League match against AEK Athens on Tuesday, as star forward Erling Haaland is also a doubt due to a foot injury sustained during the recent victory over Ipswich.

Semenyo was forced off the field in the match against Ipswich, joining Haaland and several other players showing signs of fatigue or injury. Manager Ezzo Maresca has expressed concern over the loss of Semenyo, who was seen as a key option to cover for Haaland’s potential absence. With the Norwegian striker requiring rest at some point amid a congested fixture list, Semenyo’s injury reduces City’s attacking alternatives.

“We want to keep the team ready, and losing Antoine or any player is always a difficulty,” Maresca said, emphasizing the need to explore different solutions. He noted that while Semenyo had the versatility to play in a central striker role, other players such as Phil Foden and Iliman Ndiaye could be considered to fill the void.

The injury concerns come at a time when Manchester City are managing a demanding schedule, including seven matches within 21 days in October. Several key players, including Mateo Kovacic, Matheus Nunes, and Nico O’Reilly—who, like Semenyo and Haaland, participated in the recent World Cup—were also seen leaving the pitch with signs of fatigue. This has necessitated frequent squad rotation to manage fitness levels and reduce the risk of further injuries.

“We’re trying to manage everyone as best as possible to keep them fit,” Maresca said. “Sometimes injuries happen unexpectedly, and we have to adapt quickly.”

Player Marc Guéhi highlighted the challenge of balancing recovery and tactical preparation amid the hectic schedule. “We do what we can on the pitch before games to focus on tactics, but a lot of it is about recovery and rest to be ready for the next match,” Guéhi explained. “While it’s a lot of games and less training, it’s enjoyable to be out playing.”

Manchester City, determined to bounce back after a recent Champions League loss to Paris Saint-Germain, will rely on strategic squad management in the coming weeks as they contend with injuries and intensive fixtures.