Pep Guardiola Confirms Major Injury Setback for Man City Star

Manchester City’s battle for silverware just got tougher as Pep Guardiola confirmed that key defender Manuel Akanji will be sidelined for at least two months due to an adductor injury suffered in their dramatic Champions League defeat to Real Madrid.

Champions League Heartbreak and Injury Woes

City appeared to be in control at the Etihad, leading 2-1 against Madrid thanks to a brace from Erling Haaland. But their recent trend of late-game collapses struck again, with Madrid flipping the scoreline in the final minutes to claim a crucial advantage ahead of the second leg.

As if losing the match wasn’t bad enough, Guardiola’s side also saw two of their key players, Akanji and Jack Grealish, forced off due to injury. Grealish was substituted midway through the first half, while Akanji managed to hold on until halftime before it became clear he couldn’t continue.

Guardiola Confirms Akanji’s Long Absence

Speaking ahead of City’s crucial Premier League showdown with top-four hopefuls Newcastle United, Guardiola provided a sobering update on Akanji’s condition.

"Surgery on Saturday, 8-10 weeks out. His adductor is broken," Guardiola revealed. "We wish Manu the best in his recovery because the effort he’s put in this season has been unbelievable."

The City boss also highlighted Akanji’s immense contribution, particularly given the team’s injury struggles in defense. "He and Nathan Aké have played through difficult conditions to help the team in emergency situations due to a lack of options at the back. In the end, the body said enough is enough."

Grealish Injury Less Severe, But Doubtful for Newcastle

While Akanji’s situation is serious, Guardiola offered a slightly more optimistic update on Grealish. Though he stopped short of ruling him out entirely for the Newcastle clash, the 29-year-old winger remains a major doubt.

"Not as bad as Akanji," Guardiola said. "I don’t know if he will be ready tomorrow. I don’t think he will be, but we will assess him in the next hours."

With City already struggling to keep pace in the Premier League standings, losing Akanji for an extended period and potentially missing Grealish against Newcastle is yet another challenge for Guardiola’s squad. Can they overcome the setback and stay in the hunt for glory? Time will tell.