Manchester City are heading into their Premier League clash against Crystal Palace without Manuel Akanji, who has been ruled out due to fitness concerns.
Details: Akanji, who played through discomfort in recent matches, was subbed off during the halftime break against Nottingham Forest after experiencing discomfort.
While Pep Guardiola initially downplayed the seriousness of the issue, he later confirmed Akanji had been managing pain for nearly two months to support the team.
Despite not ruling him out immediately, City ultimately decided Akanji wasn’t fit to face Palace. The Swiss defender will now focus on recovering in time for City’s crucial Champions League fixture in Turin on Tuesday.
Injuries Mounting for City:
Akanji’s absence adds to Pep Guardiola’s growing list of unavailable players. He is the seventh player to miss this match and the third central defender out:
John Stones: Foot injury
Nathan Ake: Hamstring issue sustained during the Forest game
Rodri, Oscar Bobb, Mateo Kovacic, and Phil Foden: Also sidelined
What’s at Stake:
City are looking to continue the momentum of their recent 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest, their first win and clean sheet since October. A win over Palace could help them close the gap on league leaders Liverpool, who are idle due to the postponement of the Merseyside derby.
City’s Squad for Crystal Palace:
Goalkeepers: Ederson, Ortega, Carson
Defenders: Walker, Lewis, Dias, Gvardiol, Simpson-Pusey, Wright, O’Reilly, Wilson-Esbrand
Midfielders: Gundogan, Silva, De Bruyne, McAtee, Grealish, Doku, Nunes
Forwards: Savinho, Haaland
With three centre-backs unavailable, Guardiola will likely rely on Ruben Dias, Josko Gvardiol, and younger players to step up in defense. Meanwhile, Akanji will be hoping for a swift recovery to bolster City’s backline for their Champions League campaign.
