Manchester City face defensive concerns as Nathan Ake injury adds to woes | OneFootball

Manchester City Face Defensive Crisis as Nathan Ake Suffers Injury Setback

Manchester City’s latest triumph over Plymouth in the FA Cup was overshadowed by a significant defensive setback. Nathan Ake, a vital figure in Pep Guardiola’s system, was forced off at half-time, adding to the club’s growing injury concerns at the back.

Defensive Depth Tested Once Again

After securing a crucial win at Tottenham just days earlier, City endured a tense evening at the Etihad against a resolute Plymouth side. While Kevin De Bruyne’s return stole the headlines—marking his comeback with a goal and two assists—Ake’s injury left Guardiola with yet another selection headache. The Dutch international looked in discomfort towards the end of the first half and did not return for the second, with Ruben Dias stepping in.

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City are now bracing for the possibility of an extended absence, a situation Guardiola is all too familiar with this season. Speaking post-match, he acknowledged the defensive crisis, stating:

“Now again we have central defenders out. I think we are going to miss Nathan.”

Guardiola’s Concerns Amid Champions League Aspirations

City’s aspirations of retaining the FA Cup and remaining competitive in the title race hinge on maintaining squad depth. With key defensive names already sidelined, including John Stones and Manuel Akanji, Ake’s setback further complicates matters. Guardiola expressed his relief over recent signings, adding:

“I’m so grateful to the club for bringing Vitor and Khusanov to the club otherwise we would not have any chance to qualify for the Champions League next season or fight for the FA Cup; we would have just Ruben.”

It is a situation that has plagued City throughout the campaign, with Guardiola admitting:

“It’s a miracle they are here to help us because the problems we have, have happened all season.”

Step-by-Step Approach Needed

Despite the growing concerns, Guardiola remains optimistic about City’s progression. Encouraged by recent performances against top-tier opposition, he remains focused on the bigger picture.

“The mood is good. I have a feeling in the last month we have been much better. Against Liverpool we played really good. Against Chelsea really good. Forget about Madrid, they were better. We were miles away from where we could expect to be.”

“Step-by-step, I see good things, everybody is connected. We are going to do the battles to be in the Champions League next season.”

With Ake potentially out for weeks, City’s defensive rotation will be stretched to its limits. The road ahead remains challenging, and Guardiola must once again find solutions within his depleted squad.