Manchester City have suffered a significant setback, with Pep Guardiola confirming that Manuel Akanji will be out for up to 10 weeks due to a muscle injury.
The Swiss international sustained the issue during City’s Champions League quarter-final first-leg defeat against Real Madrid and was forced off at halftime. Further medical evaluations have determined that Akanji requires surgery, ruling him out of a crucial period in the season.
Akanji’s Injury and Expected Recovery Timeline
Akanji, 29, was replaced by Rico Lewis at the break in Madrid, with Guardiola now revealing the substitution was enforced due to an abductor muscle problem. Addressing the defender’s situation, the City boss provided a timeline for his return.
“I think it is the abductor. [It will be] eight to 10 weeks out,” Guardiola stated in his pre-match press conference before City’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Newcastle United.
This means Akanji will not be available for selection until at least April, making him unavailable for pivotal clashes against the likes of Newcastle, Liverpool, and the return leg against Madrid.
Jack Grealish Also Doubtful for Newcastle Fixture
Akanji is not the only City player dealing with injury concerns. Jack Grealish was also withdrawn against Madrid due to a separate issue, adding to Guardiola’s selection headaches. While his situation is not as severe, his availability for the Newcastle game remains uncertain.
“It is not as tough as Manu but I don’t know if he will be ready tomorrow,” Guardiola admitted. “I don’t think so but we will assess in the next hours.”
With Grealish’s status still in question, City might have to navigate the Newcastle encounter without two key players.
Defensive Reinforcements Could Step Up
City were proactive in strengthening their defensive depth during the January transfer window. The club secured the signings of Abdukodir Khusanov from Lens and Brazilian talent Vitor Reis from Palmeiras. With Akanji sidelined, Guardiola may now have to rely more on these new arrivals to fill the void.
The Premier League champions face a daunting run of fixtures across multiple competitions. After their showdown with Newcastle, City travel to Madrid for the decisive second leg of their Champions League quarter-final, where they must overturn a 3-2 deficit.
City’s Defensive Dilemma in Crucial Stage of the Season
Akanji’s absence is a significant blow to Guardiola’s defensive structure. The Swiss defender has been a reliable figure in City’s backline since his arrival, offering versatility and composure under pressure. With crucial domestic and European encounters on the horizon, Guardiola will need to reshuffle his squad effectively.
City’s title hopes and Champions League ambitions could hinge on how well they manage these injuries. The upcoming matches will test the squad’s depth as they strive to maintain their dominance in England and Europe.
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