Manchester City's defensive line has been dealt another blow as Manuel Akanji has been ruled out of their upcoming crucial fixtures against Real Madrid in the Champions League and Liverpool in the Premier League. The Swiss international, who was substituted at halftime during City's 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid on Tuesday, is reportedly facing an extended absence due to a muscular injury.

This setback comes at a particularly inopportune moment for City, as they prepare to face Real Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League tie next Wednesday, followed by a high-stakes Premier League encounter with Liverpool on Sunday, February 23rd. Manager Pep Guardiola has been grappling with a series of defensive injuries throughout the season, which he has cited as a significant factor in the team's inconsistent performances.

With John Stones, Nathan Ake, and Ruben Dias only recently returning from their own injury layoffs, Guardiola's defensive options are once again stretched thin. Stones, who has been deployed in central midfield to compensate for the absence of Rodri, may need to return to his traditional defensive role. Rodri, who suffered a serious knee injury earlier in the season, has left a noticeable gap in City's midfield.

Guardiola's recent inclusion of new signing Nico Gonzalez in the squad offered some hope, but the Spanish midfielder was an unused substitute against Real Madrid after suffering an injury in his debut. The manager is expected to provide updates on both Akanji and Jack Grealish, who was also substituted in the first half, during his Friday press conference ahead of the weekend's clash with Newcastle.

As City navigates through this challenging period, the depth and resilience of their squad will be put to the test. The coming weeks could prove pivotal in their quest for silverware on both domestic and European fronts.