Manchester City fans were left dismayed when news broke that defender Manuel Akanji would not be available for the Manchester derby, scheduled for Sunday. This was due to Akanji receiving a red card during City’s game against Brighton. The red card means Akanji’s presence will be missing from the much-anticipated 180th Manchester derby. Moreover, there’s an air of uncertainty around Phil Foden’s availability for the match. He missed the recent Champions League victory against BSC Young Boys due to a minor injury.
Akanji’s absence is particularly painful for Manchester City, given his consistency and performances throughout the current season. In contrast, Phil Foden’s potential absence could also be a significant setback, considering his contributions on the field.
Summary of Manuel Akanji Suspended
| Date | Event | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| October 22, 2023 | Manuel Akanji receives a red card against Brighton | Akanji will be absent from the Manchester derby on October 30, 2023 |
| October 26, 2023 | Phil Foden misses Champions League game | Foden’s participation in the Manchester derby on October 30, 2023, remains uncertain |
| October 30, 2023 | Manchester derby | Manchester City will play without Manuel Akanji and possibly Phil Foden |
The Manchester derby, a significant event for football enthusiasts, has taken an unexpected twist. Manchester City’s reliable defender, Manuel Akanji, won’t be part of the action, having been sidelined due to suspension. The European champions face a tough challenge, especially as Phil Foden’s presence remains doubtful.
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Manuel Akanji’s Suspension
Manuel Akanji was shown a second yellow card against Brighton. Despite his suspension, he managed to play in the Champions League against Young Boys recently. But the derby will see him serving his one-game domestic ban. With an average of 2.2 tackles and 1.8 interceptions in Premier League matches this season, his absence will undoubtedly be felt.
Phil Foden’s Status
The cloud of uncertainty hovers around Phil Foden as well. Having missed a Champions League match recently, questions arise about his availability for the derby. His injury history adds to the concerns, making it unclear if he’ll take the field against Manchester United. With three goals and four assists this season, Foden’s potential absence could hurt Manchester City’s game plan.
Suspensions & Absences History
Manuel Akanji’s record has been relatively clean. He’s been shown the red card just twice in his career, both times for double yellows. His first suspension dates back to November 2021, while the second one occurred after the recent Brighton game.
Manchester City’s Lineup Changes
Given the current circumstances, Pep Guardiola might be making notable lineup changes. Nathan Ake appears to be the probable replacement for Akanji. And if Foden remains unavailable, there’s a chance that Bernardo Silva or Julian Alvarez could step up.
Manuel Akanji’s Reaction
Manuel Akanji expressed his disappointment, stating, “I am very frustrated and disappointed to miss the derby. It’s a significant match for both the club and fans. I would have loved to be a part of it.”
Conclusion
Both Akanji’s suspension and the ambiguity around Foden’s status come as a blow to Manchester City before the derby. But the team’s strong squad might still hold some aces up their sleeve. All eyes will be on Pep Guardiola’s strategy and how Manchester City fares against their arch-rivals, Manchester United.
FAQs:
Q: Why is Manuel Akanji suspended?
A: Akanji received a second yellow card in the match against Brighton, resulting in a one-game suspension.
Q: Is Phil Foden playing the Manchester derby?
A: Phil Foden’s status remains uncertain due to a recent minor injury.
Q: How many times has Akanji been suspended before?
A: Akanji has been suspended twice in his career, with the recent one being after the Brighton game.
Q: Who might replace Akanji in the Manchester derby?
A: Nathan Ake is the probable replacement for Akanji in the upcoming derby.
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