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Manuel Akanji joined Manchester City from Borussia Dortmund on a five-year deal in the summer of 2022 Defender Manuel Akanji has been ruled out of Manchester City's Champions League return with Real Madrid and their Premier League match with Liverpool amid fears he could be set for an extended absence with a muscular problem. The Switzerland centre-back was replaced at half-time in the 3-2 defeat by Real at Etihad Stadium on Tuesday. City face Real in the second leg next Wednesday before hosting Liverpool on Sunday, 23 February. Manager Pep Guardiola was not asked about Akanji in the aftermath of the game but is expected to offer an update on the 29-year-old, as well as forward Jack Grealish - who was replaced in the first half - when he holds his regular media briefing on Friday before his side's game with Newcastle on Saturday. However, sources have said Akanji has been ruled out of City's immediate games. It is the latest in a series of defensive injury problems Guardiola has had to deal with this season which he has repeatedly stated is the major reason for City's below-par performances and results. Defenders John Stones, Nathan Ake and Ruben Dias have all just returned from recent absences. Stones was used in central midfield in midweek as Guardiola tried to cover for the hole left by Ballon d'Or winner Rodri, who ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee during City's 2-2 draw with Arsenal in September. Guardiola did include new signing Nico Gonzalez in his squad to face Real, but the Spanish midfielder was left on the bench throughout the defeat after being forced off with injury in the first half of his debut at Leyton Orient last Saturday. 'Injuries and bad planning behind Man City problems' Comments can not be loaded To load Comments you need to enable Java Script in your browser Four-time NFL MVP Rodgers to leave the Jets FA Cup to use semi-automated offsides for first time Littler wins Premier League night two in Glasgow Your first look at the new Scot-Squad spin-off Join Scot Squad’s top cop as he dives deep into his daily duties The tale of a billionaire family, stolen relics and fake treasure A scholar turned sleuth hunts stolen relics, exposing a scandal of biblical proportions The transformation of three men sentenced to life Three men sentenced to life for murder undertake running a marathon around a crowded prison yard New sci-fi audio book read by Amanda Lawrence Maya thinks they've got a ghost. Vidya is the only extra-natural mediator she can find 'Goodison was never going to go quietly - but this was something else' Celtic take German lessons to avert 'absolute thumping' What has derby drama done to title race? Champions Wigan the hunted as Super League returns Europe's best title race? The 'chaos' of 2. Bundesliga Who could replace Gatland as next Wales head coach? Man City's lack of belief and ageing team exposed by ruthless Real Madrid The Afghan women's team who will not be silenced Super Bowl win sees Mailata complete 'greatest story in football' Football Daily. Audio Football Daily In Pictures: Sporting photos of the week End of a dynasty? What next for the Chiefs after Super Bowl blowout? Lions watch week two: Fly-halves, flankers & props star 'Ireland live rent free in Scotland's heads - again' Philadelphia Eagles destroy Kansas City Chiefs to win Super Bowl. Video Philadelphia Eagles destroy Kansas City Chiefs to win Super Bowl Boom or bust? Golf in flux but is it really thriving? 'Complete team' Ireland in driving seat for hat-trick Hoy reception & England's dramatic finish in Six Nations best moments. Video Hoy reception & England's dramatic finish in Six Nations best moments Fin Smith's composure gives England vital new dimension - Dawson 'I'm happy it was like that' - so was FA Cup better without VAR? Copyright © 2025 BBC. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.