Blow for Man City: Akanji set to miss key UCL, EPL Fixtures

Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji has been ruled out of their Champions League second-leg clash against Real Madrid and the crucial Premier League showdown with Liverpool due to a muscular injury, raising concerns over a potentially lengthy absence.

The Swiss centre-back was forced off at halftime during City’s 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.

His absence comes as a blow to Pep Guardiola’s side, who host Liverpool on Sunday, February 23, before traveling to Spain for the decisive European tie next Wednesday.

Guardiola did not address Akanji’s condition in his post-match press conference but is expected to provide an update—alongside news on Jack Grealish, who was also withdrawn early—during his pre-match media briefing on Friday ahead of City’s game against Newcastle on Saturday.

Sources confirm Akanji is sidelined for the immediate future, adding to City’s ongoing defensive struggles this season. Guardiola has frequently cited injuries at the back as a key factor in his team’s inconsistent performances.

John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Ruben Dias have only recently returned to action, while Stones was deployed in midfield against Real Madrid to help cover for Rodri, who remains out after suffering an ACL injury in September’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal.

Meanwhile, new signing Nico Gonzalez was included in the squad against Madrid but remained an unused substitute, having been forced off early in his debut against Leyton Orient last weekend.