Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has become the latest injury doubt for Sunday's showdown with Arsenal. The Swiss has followed Kyle Walker's lead in pulling out of his international squad due to a fresh concern ahead of this weekend's high-stakes Premier League clash.
Related articles
Walker was substituted in the first half of England's friendly defeat to Brazil on Saturday. By and large, the right-back has captained City since the departure of treble-winning skipper Ilkay Gundogan last summer.
England boss Gareth Southgate subsequently confirmed that Walker had withdrawn from the squad after feeling 'muscle tightness'. City are set to assess him this weekend, when Arsenal will visit the Etihad Stadium in a vital top-of-the-table tie.
The bad news keeps on coming for City manager Pep Guardiola, with Akanji the latest player to pick up a knock. Switzerland boss Murat Yakin has confirmed that the 28-year-old will not be available for Tuesday's match with the Republic of Ireland.
Akanji has proved himself to be a bargain buy since arriving at the Etihad from Borussia Dortmund in 2022. The centre-back has started 19 Premier League matches this season and gives Guardiola freedom to tweak the side due to his versatility.
The absence of Akanji and Walker would be painful for third-place City this weekend as they scramble to keep pace with Arsenal and Liverpool. Kevin De Bruyne and Ederson are also racing to be fit for the upcoming game.
Related articles
De Bruyne has stayed with City to recover from a groin problem after opting not to join up with Belgium this month. Guardiola has been forced to operate without him for a huge chunk of this season, and he was left out of the matchday squad against Newcastle United last time out.
Ederson was replaced by back-up goalkeeper Stefan Ortega against Liverpool and the Magpies before the international break due to an issue which also prevented him reporting for Brazil duty.
Guardiola praises ‘special’ Man City after making FA Cup history
None of Walker, Akanji, Ederson or De Bruyne have been categorically ruled out of the Arsenal game but Guardiola may be required to reshuffle the side and leave out those who are not yet at 100 per cent.
The Gunners are sure to pose a formidable test to the reigning champions, having won their last eight consecutive Premier League matches. Fulham were the last team to take three points from the Gunners, securing a 2-1 win on New Year's Eve.
