Three more Manchester City players withdraw from international duty

It is no secret that the Manchester City squad has been ravaged by injuries in recent weeks. But now the extent of City’s injury problems is beginning to reveal itself. Matheus Nunes withdrew from the Portuguese squad for their upcoming UEFA Nations League matches due to injury. Now three more City players have withdrawn from international duty.

Jack Gaughan has reported via X that Jack Grealish and Phil Foden have withdrawn from the England squad for their Nations League matches against the Republic of Ireland and Greece. In the case of Jack Grealish that isn’t a major surprise. Grealish hasn’t played since Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Wolves at Molineux. With Grealish being withdrawn from international duty you do have to question the wisdom of picking him in the first place. Phil Foden’s withdrawal is a surprise. Foden had played in all four of City’s losses against Tottenham, Bournemouth, Sporting CP and Brighton. But perhaps having a rest is the best thing for Foden after such a heavy workload.

Manuel Akanji has also been withdrawn from international duty. The Switzerland Football Association confirmed Akanji’s withdrawal via their official website. Akanji missed Manchester City’s defeat to Brighton as he isn’t yet 100% fit to play. That was apparent when he played in City’s 4-1 defeat to Sporting in Lisbon.

The injury situation surrounding Manchester City is now becoming clear. It was obvious before the news of Foden, Grealish and Akanji being withdrawn from international duty broke. Now it is obvious for all to see. The hope is now the opportunity for the trio to rest will see them work their way back to full fitness in time for Manchester City’s clash with Tottenham at the Etihad after the international break.

Tags England Jack Gaughan Jack Grealish Lee Carsley Manchester City Manuel Akanji Matheus Nunes Pep Guardiola Phil Foden Portugal Switzerland