Manuel Akanji’s Absence and Guardiola’s Tactical Challenges.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Manuel Akanji is among six players unavailable for Sunday’s highly anticipated Manchester derby against Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium. Akanji, who was substituted at halftime during City’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest due to persistent physical issues, has been struggling with discomfort in the belly, pelvis, and abductor areas for months, according to Guardiola.
Despite his efforts to play through the pain, the Switzerland international has missed City’s last two matches, including their midweek 2-0 Champions League loss to Juventus. Guardiola expressed regret over Akanji’s unavailability, labeling him a reliable and strong player whose absence creates a defensive dilemma.
Nathan Ake’s Hamstring Setback
Another defensive blow comes with Nathan Ake, who pulled his hamstring in the final minutes of the Forest clash. Guardiola revealed his frustration during a press conference, explaining that Ake’s recurring injuries are compounded by the team’s demanding schedule and limited defensive options.
The Catalan tactician lamented the lack of rotation opportunities due to injuries to both Akanji and John Stones, suggesting that Ake’s workload could have been managed more effectively had other key defenders been fit.
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Key Injury Concerns for the Derby
Akanji and Ake are not the only absentees for the derby. Guardiola confirmed that Stones (foot), Rodri (ACL), and Oscar Bobb (leg fracture) will also miss the clash. Rico Lewis, suspended after receiving a red card in last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace, adds to City’s woes.
With only three recognized first-team defenders available—Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol—Guardiola hinted at the possibility of a tactical shakeup. Academy prospect Jahmai Simpson-Pusey could also feature, while Guardiola suggested experimenting with wingers or midfielders in defensive roles.
“Maybe a winger plays full-back, or Matheus [Nunes] could fill in. We might even switch to five at the back with wing-backs,” Guardiola hinted during the press conference.
Guardiola’s Reflection Amid Injury Crisis
Guardiola acknowledged the challenges of managing a depleted squad during a congested fixture schedule, hinting at the need for deeper squad depth in future seasons.
“We have more injuries than ever. It makes me think that maybe we need a squad of 45-50 players to cope with this schedule. It’s not the fault of the players, physios, or doctors—it’s the relentless calendar,” he explained.
Despite the difficulties, Guardiola praised his team’s resilience, highlighting Kevin De Bruyne’s gradual return to form and Erling Haaland’s tireless contributions. He also appealed to fans for their unwavering support during this challenging period.
“This group of players has created an era, breaking records and doing things no one else has done. I urge the fans to stick with us—we’ll fight until the end,” Guardiola added.
Man City’s League Position and Upcoming Challenges
Heading into the derby, Manchester City sit fourth in the Premier League, eight points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. Meanwhile, rivals Manchester United languish in 13th place with their lowest points tally after 15 games since 1986-87.
While Guardiola refrained from providing updates on Mateo Kovacic and Phil Foden, both players were unused substitutes against Juventus and are expected to make the matchday squad for the derby.
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The Manchester derby promises to be a tactical battle as Guardiola navigates an injury-hit squad. With limited defensive options, City will rely on their remaining players to step up and maintain their momentum in the Premier League race.
