Manchester City. Gabby seeks guidance from real Ronaldo

Injuries and bad tackles have been in the Manchester City news feed recently. For the teams fans it is a disappointment to see any player sidelined. If it’s a major player for your side it can be devastating. What fans sometimes tend not to appreciate though, is the struggle the player goes through behind the scenes.

There is no guarantee that players will come back from each injury they sustain. Their careers are short enough as it is, yet injury could shorten it still. Look at the recent Ryan Mason situation forcing the player into retirement a year plus after the initial injury. An accidental collision with Gary Cahill on January 22nd 2017 led him to a year of rehab before he announced his retirement a few days ago.

For Hull City fans its a blow, but imagine the disappointment of the player himself. Almost 400 days of grueling operations, rehab and specialist visits and he still will not play again. In Manchester City’s history we too have had those stories.

Paul Lake and Colin Bell both had different spells with City, Bell won everything while Lake never got to the same levels. Both suffered injuries on the field and both went through a long rehab process before finally being forced into retire. I would actually like to recommend Paul Lakes book, ‘I’m Not Really Here’, if you want an honest look from a players perspective.

For Gabriel Jesus it has been two injuries in a matter of a year since he joined the club. In his third league start for the blues he broke a metatarsal in his right foot. Expected to be out for the rest of the season he did actually return before the end.

Now, he is out again. On New Years Eve, against Palace, he hobbled off the pitch in tears. Clearly in discomfort it was later reported he had suffered knee ligament damage. At 20 years old, he admitted to Mancity.com that in those first days after the injury he was scared.

He did have the support of his family, but you still have to train alone. It is a lonely time but the players have rallied around him. Jesus has spoken of Fernandinho’s support in particular. Another source of inspiration for Gabby is Ronaldo.

Next: Injury Return Against Arsenal In The Cup?

The ex Brazilian striker, who suffered his own fair share of injuries, has been a source of inspiration and positively for Jesus. Of course, the real Ronaldo, has the best interests of his country in mind. With the World Cup coming up it will be vital for Brazil that their main men are ready to go.

But their benefit is our benefit and, although the Wigan game may be too soon, he could make the bench and could certainly be ready to go next weekend.