Manchester City faces defensive worries ahead of Arsenal match as third defender doubtful

Redaction Willow Austin
Published on 2024-03-28 10:42:43

Manchester City may be missing three defensive players this weekend, as a new report suggests Manuel Akanji is now also uncertain for the clash with Arsenal.

The Swiss international played in the first of his country’s recent international friendlies but had to withdraw from the second game against Ireland due to a training injury.

Akanji joins a growing list of Manchester City players who sustained injuries during international duty, with defensive partners Kyle Walker and John Stones also picking up issues while with England.

As Manchester City prepares to face Arsenal this weekend, Pep Guardiola will be hoping for positive updates on his players in doubt, although early indications suggest further concerns for the defense.

According to The Sun’s Martin Blackburn, Kyle Walker, John Stones, and now Manuel Akanji are all doubtful for Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Arsenal.

Stones will undergo additional scans and assessments with the medical team, but there is doubt about his availability for Sunday’s match.

While Walker’s hamstring issue may not be severe, Manchester City could opt to give him time to recover ahead of a crucial European match against Real Madrid in April.

Pep Guardiola is set to address the media on Friday and provide an update on the squad following their return to training on Thursday