Manchester City have been dealt a major injury blow as defender Manuel Akanji is set to undergo hip surgery, ruling him out for at least eight weeks.
The Switzerland international was forced off during City’s dramatic 3-2 defeat against Real Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday. Pep Guardiola confirmed Akanji’s extended absence in his press conference on Friday, revealing that the defender will miss crucial fixtures, including the Premier League clashes against Newcastle United and Liverpool, as well as the Champions League second leg against Madrid.
“It’s the abductor,” Guardiola stated. “He will have surgery on Saturday and will be out for around 8-10 weeks.”
Akanji’s injury means he will be sidelined for at least eight league matches, as well as City’s FA Cup tie against Plymouth on March 1. His absence leaves Guardiola with limited defensive options as City enter a critical phase of the season.
Meanwhile, Jack Grealish is a major doubt for the Newcastle game after being substituted against Madrid. Guardiola remained uncertain about his availability, saying, “It’s not as serious as Manu’s injury, but we don’t know if he will be ready. We’ll assess in the next few hours.”
City’s £50 million January signing, Nico Gonzalez, could be in line for a starting role against Newcastle. The Portuguese midfielder was left on the bench in the Madrid game but is nearing full fitness after arriving with a slight injury.
“It’s not been a difficult start for him, he was just injured,” Guardiola explained. “He wasn’t fully fit against Madrid, but he’s improving day by day.”
With key players sidelined, Guardiola faces a selection headache ahead of a crucial period in City’s title and European campaigns.