Man City star to miss international meet up as defensive injury crisis deepens

Manchester City are three injured defenders absent at the moment.

Nathan Ake, a defender for Manchester City, will not be present with the Netherlands squad on Monday in preparation for their impending international matches against Gibraltar and the Republic of Ireland.

Due to injury, the 28-year-old was unable to participate in Sunday’s tense 4-4 stalemate against Chelsea; however, limited information has surfaced concerning the extent of the issue. However, just prior to the conclusion of the match at Stamford Bridge, the Netherlands affirmed that the player would remain in Manchester indefinitely.

The Dutch national issued the following statement on social media: “Due to an injury, Nathan Ake will be unable to attend Oranje’s training program in Zeist tomorrow. “We wish you a speedy recovery, NathanAke!”

The persistent injury issues at City’s back are further compounded by Ake’s knock, as John Stones is also unable to play against Chelsea due to a problem he encountered in the midweek victory over Young Boys.

Following Tuesday’s Champions League match, Pep Guardiola stated that Stones’ injury would sideline him “for a while.” However, on Friday, he clarified that the situation is not as dire as he initially believed.

On Tuesday, Manuel Akanji also sustained an injury when a back spasm prevented him from participating in the 3-0 victory over Young Boys. Fortunately, he recovered in time to make his return against Chelsea. The champions are also without Sergio Gomez, who was recently observed using splints but is expected to return following the international break.

As a consequence, Guardiola is presently limited to the following five fit defenders: Josko Gvardiol, Kyle Walker, Rico Lewis, Ruben Dias, and Akanji.

On the field, City moved a point clear atop the Premier League standings with a captivating draw at Stamford Bridge; Erling Haaland scored twice, Akanji scored a header, and Rodri’s late effort deflected off the toe of Thiago Silva.

As for Chelsea, Silva, Raheem Sterling, and Nicolas Jackson scored before Cole Palmer equalized from the penalty spot in stoppage time, making his debut against City since his summer transfer.

City will host Liverpool in the Premier League following the international break; the matchup will cast first against second.