Manchester City expect Dias and Stones to return after injury concerns

Pep Lijnders provides update on Ruben Dias and John Stones
Defensive pair missed Manchester City FA Cup win over Liverpool
City set to face Southampton in FA Cup semi final

Pep Lijnders has indicated that Ruben Dias and John Stones are expected to return to action soon for Manchester City following recent injury concerns.

Dias has been unavailable since sustaining an issue during a Champions League match against Real Madrid in March. The defender did not join the Portugal national football team during the international period and has continued his recovery at club level.

Stones withdrew from international duty with the England national football team after being named among the substitutes in the EFL Cup final victory over Arsenal. His most recent appearance came in an FA Cup win against Newcastle United earlier in March.

Lijnders said both players are dealing with short term issues rather than long term injuries. He confirmed that Dias sustained a knock in training and is undergoing assessment, while Stones is also expected to return in the near future.

Manchester City secured a 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter–final, a result that booked their place in the semi-final.

They will face Southampton in the next round as they continue their pursuit of domestic silverware.

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Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.