Manuel Akanji is still struggling with a knee injury and could not train with Manchester City in Abu Dhabi.
That is according to The Times.
So, what is the latest on Manuel Akanji at Manchester City? Let’s take a look…
Akanji remains absent for Manchester City
Well, the Switzerland international suffered a knee injury in the 5-0 FA Cup win over Huddersfield at the beginning of January.
Akanji missed the thrilling 3-2 Premier League victory over Newcastle as a result of the problem, and is yet to return to training for Manchester City, according to The Times.
Pep Guardiola was able to welcome Erling Haaland back into the fold during Manchester City’s warm weather training camp in Abu Dhabi, with the Norway international completing a full session.
However, Akanji is described by The Times as the “only” player to sit out of the training camp.
Guardiola will be disappointed
In our view, Akanji is arguably the most underrated footballer at Manchester City, and Guardiola will be upset to see his No.25 remain on the sidelines.
His absence in the aforementioned 3-2 win over Newcastle led to Guardiola’s backline looking far from composed, as the 28-year-old’s footballing intelligence was sorely missed.
Of course, the likes of Ruben Dias, John Stones, Nathan Ake and Josko Gvardiol can cover for Akanji in central defence, but the sooner the Swiss star returns, the better.
In better news – however – the aforementioned return of Haaland should ensure Manchester City are able to outscore opponents even if goals are still being shipped at the other end.
The Manchester City No.9 has netted 19 times in just 22 appearances this season, with his clinical finishing set to mask any defensive deficiencies Guardiola may experience without Akanji at the back.
Be sure to keep an eye out for further updates on the Wiesendangen-born defender, with Guardiola likely to provide news on the matter before Friday’s FA Cup clash against Tottenham.
