Pep Guardiola revealed Nathan Ake was forced off in the first half of Manchester City’s 3-3 draw with Newcastle United on Sunday due a groin injury, which could be a long-term problem.

The centre-back appeared to be in some discomfort as he was withdrawn on 21 minutes, with Ruben Dias coming on to replace him.

The issues could keep Ake out for a while, with Guardiola confirming after the game he will not be involved in midweek for City’s friendly against Barcelona.

“I think it’s his groin,” Guardiola said in his post-match press conference. “If he is out it is because he is injured, otherwise he would be there,” the Catalan boss added.

Asked if he will be avaialble for Wednesday’s friendly, Guardiola responded: “Absolutely not.”

It’s a worrying update for City and leaves them with potentially just two fit centre-backs going forward, with Aymeric Laporte out until at least the end of the month after undergoing surgery on his knee during the summer.

This Ake update was shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

“Hopefully it’s not too serious.”
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“2 cbs not looking good”
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“Down to 2 CB. Hopefully Ake back for next weekend..”
Credit: @MCFCTone

“Hopefully he comes back quickly 🙏”
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“Hopefully he’s okay.”
Credit: @sofiamcfc

“Hopefully he’ll be ready for palace. We can’t play 4 right footed defenders..”
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