AAP Soccer

Injured Dias out for four weeks in fresh Man City blow

By AAP Newswire

Dec 21, 2024

Manchester City's woes have continued with a fresh injury blow ruling out the English champions' key defender Ruben Dias for up to four weeks.

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Manager Pep Guardiola has revealed the Portugal international sustained a muscular problem in the latter stages of last week's derby defeat to Manchester United.

Guardiola said at a press conference on Friday: Â "After 75 minutes against United, he felt something.

"He's strong and wanted to stay on the pitch, but now he's injured."

Guardiola also added that goalkeeper Ederson is doubtful for Saturday's Premier League trip to Aston Villa.

The news comes just when City, who have lost eight of their last 11 games in all competitions, winning just one, were hoping their injury issues were starting to ease.

John Stones and Mateo Kovacic are both back in contention having been on the bench against United and Manuel Akanji could also return at Villa Park.

"Manu and John have been back in training for the last few days so that's good for us. The more players that come back the better," said Guardiola.

Rico Lewis returns from suspension but centre-back Nathan Ake is still sidelined with a thigh problem while Rodri and Oscar Bobb are long-term absentees.

By AAP Newswire

Australian Associated Press