Manchester City’s Rico Lewis faces a prolonged absence from the Club World Cup after FIFA extended his ban by two additional games. The initial ban stemming from a red card during City’s 2-0 victory against Wydad AC in Philadelphia has been increased, meaning Lewis will be unavailable for City’s upcoming matches against Juventus in Orlando, Florida, and the crucial last-16 tie. The decision follows a contentious challenge involving Samuel Obeng, which resulted in a direct red card and sparked immediate concern amongst Guardiola and City’s supporters. Guardiola himself expressed his frustration with the ruling, labeling the incident as "unnecessary," highlighting the difficulty it presents for City’s tactical setup. The FIFA disciplinary committee’s ruling, outlined in a formal statement, cited a breach under article 14 paragraph 1 e) of the FIFA disciplinary code, emphasizing the seriousness of the infraction. While City initially appealed the decision, the appeal was unsuccessful, adding another layer of complication to Guardiola’s already challenging selection dilemmas. With just one game remaining in the group stage, securing top spot is paramount, and Lewis’s absence significantly impacts City’s ability to achieve this goal.

Currently, the only natural right-back available within the squad is Rico Lewis, a critical factor given the team’s tactical needs. However, Guardiola has explored alternative options, notably utilizing midfielder Matheus Nunes who performed admirably in that position during the 2022-2023 season. Additionally, Abdukodir Khusanov filled the right-back role against Al Ain, demonstrating versatility within the squad. Another option utilized was centre-back Manuel Akanji, showcasing tactical flexibility. A significant absence is that of Kyle Walker, who is not participating in the tournament in the United States as he focuses on pursuing a potential transfer away from the Etihad Stadium.

Despite the setback, City remains proactive in addressing the right-back position, with several names being considered for potential recruitment this summer. Notably, Andrea Cambiaso, a player from Juventus, is reportedly under consideration, suggesting a potential move for a seasoned defender. Guardiola and the coaching staff are diligently evaluating all available options to ensure the team’s continued competitiveness and success throughout the Club World Cup. The situation underscores the importance of maintaining defensive stability and the adaptability required to navigate the challenges of a global tournament. This extended ban presents a significant hurdle, demanding immediate solutions and strategic adjustments from the team’s leadership.