Manchester City have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their crucial clash with Arsenal. The timing could not be worse in the context of the title race.
However, Pep Guardiola must now prepare without one of his key players. At the same time, Guardiola is facing multiple concerns at the back.
Josko Gvardiol is also sidelined, while John Stones remains a doubt. Now, according to Manchester Evening News, Ruben Dias will miss the upcoming fixture after suffering an ankle injury last month.
The defender is not expected to return until later in the month. Meanwhile, his absence leaves a gap in City’s defence. He has been a vital figure as vice-captain.
That situation limits City’s options. They could be left with just three senior centre-backs for two key matches in a short period.
Meanwhile, Nathan Ake and Abdukodir Khusanov started together in the League Cup final against Arsenal. Marc Guehi later partnered in defence during matches against Liverpool and Chelsea.
Guardiola may now rely on those combinations again. However, he still has decisions to make. At the same time, the stakes are high. A win against Arsenal could push City to the top of the table.
They also have another important game against Burnley shortly after. Meanwhile, Arsenal arrive under pressure. They have struggled in recent weeks.
They lost the Carabao Cup final, exited the FA Cup against Southampton and suffered a league defeat to Bournemouth. That run has allowed City to close the gap in the title race.
Now, this weekend’s clash could prove decisive. And with Ruben Dias ruled out, Manchester City face a major challenge heading into the game.
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