Manchester City have suffered another significant injury setback after Pep Guardiola confirmed that defender Manuel Akanji could be sidelined for up to 10 weeks.
Akanji suffered an abductor muscle injury during the first half of City’s Champions League play-off defeat to Real Madrid on Tuesday. The Switzerland international was replaced at half-time as City eventually lost 3-2 following Jude Bellingham’s late winner.
Guardiola revealed that Akanji is expected to undergo surgery and faces a lengthy recovery period, dealing another blow to a Manchester City squad that has struggled with injuries this season.
The Premier League champions are already without key midfielder Rodri, while Nathan Ake has also been managing fitness issues. Akanji and Ake have been heavily relied upon to provide defensive cover during a difficult period for the team.
Guardiola praised Akanji’s commitment to the team, noting that the defender had continued to play despite not being at his best physically.
Guardiola said:
Akanji’s abductor is torn and he is expected to be out for eight to 10 weeks. We wish him the best recovery.
The City boss also provided a more encouraging update on Jack Grealish, who was forced off during the Madrid clash. The England international is considered a doubt for the weekend meeting with Newcastle United, although his problem is reportedly less serious than Akanji’s.
Guardiola also addressed the fitness of new signing Nico Gonzalez, who was forced off during his City debut against Leyton Orient and was subsequently left out of the squad for the Madrid fixture.
