A dream debut for Nico González turns into a nightmare.
Image credit: City Xtra
Manchester City’s new £50 million signing, Nico Gonzalez, endured a nightmare debut, lasting less than 25 minutes before being forced off injured in their FA Cup fourth-round clash against Leyton Orient.
A Debut to Forget
Gonzalez, who arrived from FC Porto in the January transfer window, was introduced into Pep Guardiola’s squad as a key replacement for the injured Rodri.
However, his highly anticipated first appearance took an unfortunate turn when he fell heavily under a challenge from Sonny Perkins, moments after Orient stunned City with a long-range opener.
Despite initially attempting to play on, the 23-year-old midfielder was soon withdrawn, leaving City fans anxious about the severity of his injury.
A Major Blow for City
With City already dealing with key injuries, losing Gonzalez could prove costly as they aim to salvage their 2024/25 season.
Nico González was subbed off injured only 22 minutes into his Manchester City debut and is a doubt for the Real Madrid clash on Tuesday 🤕
— 433 (@433) February 8, 2025
Get well soon, Nico 🙏 pic.twitter.com/uIL70Gacqu
Guardiola will be hoping the injury isn’t serious, especially with a crucial Champions League play-off tie against Real Madrid on the horizon.
Gonzalez’s Journey So Far
Before his move to England, Gonzalez developed through Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, making his senior debut in 2019.
He later moved to Porto in 2023, where he made 68 appearances, scoring nine goals and assisting the same number.
His contributions helped Porto lift the Portuguese Cup last season, earning him a high-profile move to the Premier League champions.
What’s Next for City?
Following this FA Cup fixture, Manchester City will turn their attention to a high-stakes Champions League clash against Real Madrid on Tuesday night.
Guardiola will be closely monitoring Gonzalez’s recovery, hoping his new signing can return to action swiftly.