Manuel Akanji is expected to be fit for Manchester City’s Premier League match against Bournemouth, following his absence in the Carabao Cup defeat to Tottenham due to injury.
Akanji was initially named in City’s starting lineup for the match at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but he was replaced by Ruben Dias shortly before kickoff. Sky Sports first reported it as a calf issue, but Pep Guardiola later clarified that Akanji had “felt something muscular in the meniscus” during training on Tuesday. Though he was initially cleared to start, Akanji experienced discomfort again during the warm-up, leading to a decision to keep him out of the match. Guardiola noted that while the Swiss international had been willing to play, the choice was ultimately made to prioritize his recovery.
Now, according to Sky, Akanji has confirmed he is “fine” and expects to train on Friday, making himself available for Saturday’s game against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium. His issue is described as “groin tightness.”
Akanji’s return would be a relief for City amid their current injury challenges. Following the Tottenham game, Guardiola mentioned that only 13 players were fully fit, with six others out until at least the international break. Meanwhile, Savinho is undergoing tests after being stretchered off due to an ankle injury at Spurs, with reports from Brazil and Spain suggesting it might be less severe than initially feared. Guardiola is expected to provide an update on the situation on Friday.
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