Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Oscar Bobb will be sidelined for 'three or four months' after sustaining an injury in training.
The 21-year-old academy graduate was a standout performer for the Citizens during their pre-season tour of the United States earlier this summer.
Bobb scored two goals and provided three assists in four matches over in the States, before setting up Bernardo Silva for City's equaliser in the Community Shield against Manchester United last weekend, with Guardiola's men going on to win the annual curtain-raiser on penalties.
The versatile attacker was tipped by many to be handed a start in Man City's opening fixture of the new Premier League season away against Chelsea on Sunday.
However, Bobb sustained a fracture to a bone in his leg during a non-contact situation in Wednesday's training session and Guardiola has confirmed that the youngster is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
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Bobb requires surgery after "big impact" injury
Speaking about Bobb at press conference on Friday ahead of City's trip to Stamford Bridge on Sunday, Guardiola said: "It was in the training session and unfortunately he had a big impact and is injured.
"He will have surgery and hopefully he will be well and we welcome him back as soon as possible in three, four months.
"We are so sad for him, but not because he was making an incredible pre-season, because that doesn't matter, when [the] injury is a long time it is a problem and we're looking forward to seeing him again as soon as possible.
"A good recovery as quick as possible and that's all."
The devastating news for Bobb, who is expected to travel to Barcelona to undergo surgery, means he is not expected to return for City until mid-November at the earliest.
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Who could replace Bobb in the Man City lineup?
Bobb would have been hoping to start on either flank, most likely the right, has he been fit to feature against Chelsea.
However, his absence now opens the door for City's sole signing of the summer, Savinho, to potentially make his competitive debut on Sunday.
The 20-year-old Brazil international has joined the Citizens for an initial £21m from sister club Troyes after excelling on loan Girona last season, recorded nine goals and 10 assists in 37 La Liga games.
Phil Foden, Jeremy Doku, Jack Grealish and Bernardo Silva are also wide options at Guardiola's disposal, although the latter could be tasked with operating in a central midfield role against Chelsea.
That is because Guardiola has confirmed that star lynchpin Rodri is ruled out of Sunday's contest with the Blues having only just returned to the club's training complex following an extended summer break.
Oliver Thomas
