Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji is anticipated to undergo surgery for a thigh injury and is likely to be sidelined for a duration of up to 10 weeks.
The 29-year-old Switzerland international, incurred the injury during the Champions League knock-out phase play-off match held on Tuesday, in which his team was defeated 3-2 by Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium.
“He has surgery on Saturday. Eight to 10 weeks out,” manager Pep Guardiola said on Friday.
The groin injury incurred by Jack Grealish during the first-leg match is not as severe.
Nevertheless, Guardiola expressed doubt regarding the England international’s availability for the upcoming Premier League home game against Newcastle United on Saturday.
Regarding Grealish, Guardiola remarked, “It is not as serious as what Manu [Akanji] has experienced, but I do not know if he will be prepared for tomorrow”.
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“I don’t think so, but we will assess him.”
Akanji has started 20 of City’s 24 Premier League games this season, among 30 appearances across all competitions.
City, who lost key defensive midfielder Rodri when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in September, are fifth in the Premier League – with last season’s champions 16 points adrift of leaders Liverpool.
Akanji’s injury comes after fellow defenders John Stones, Nathan Ake and Ruben Dias only recently returned from absences.
“We only wish the best recovery for Manu [Akanji]. The effort he has done this season has been unbelievable,” Guardiola said.
“Him and Nathan [Ake] have played in difficult conditions. Help the team in [an] emergency. Helped in right-back.
“In the end the body said enough is enough.”
