Manuel Akanji will miss Sunday’s derby due to suspension, but are there also doubts on Phil Foden for the derby against Manchester United? Foden didn’t feature in City’s 3-1 win over Young Boys during the week. The assumption is that he was rested for tomorrow’s derby at Old Trafford.
Pep Guardiola was asked about the status of Phil Foden and Julian Alvarez following City’s win over Young Boys. He told the media: “Phil had a little problem, Julian could not play 90 minutes. We don’t have a huge squad but I rely on them a lot and they played really good.”
What the problem reportedly was with Phil Foden hasn’t been specified. He has been ever-present for the treble winners so far this season. He has made 14 appearances in all competitions so far this season. Foden has added two goals and 4 assists so far this campaign.
Besides the doubts over Phil Foden’s status, there are no other injury concerns with the Manchester City squad. Kevin De Bruyne is the only player out with an injury. The Belgian midfielder isn’t due back until the New Year after hamstring surgery.
Manuel Akanji’s suspension is a blow for the European champions. He was sent off late in last weekend’s 2-1 win over Brighton. The Swiss defender also scored in the 3-1 win over Young Boys in the UEFA Champions League game midweek. Akanji has had a stellar spell at Manchester City since arriving from Dortmund before last season.
With John Stones back from injury and getting back into form following his start over Brighton last weekend, he will most likely be the player to come in for the suspended Swiss international.
