Akanji joins list of unfit Manchester City players ahead of Arsenal clash

Manuel Akanji has pulled out of the Switzerland squad after picking up a knock, as coach Murat Yakin confirms.

Manchester City have already been informed of the development, and awaits his return to England, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.

This comes as City’s boss Guardiola has several fitness worries to contend with, ahead of their clash with Arsenal at the Etihad on Sunday.

Stefan Ortega is expected to deputise in goal for the injured number one, Ederson.

City’s captain Kyle Walker is also in contention to play after sustaining a hamstring injury 20 minutes into England’s defeat to Brazil last Saturday.

He subsequently withdrew from international duty but the problem is reportedly not expected to be too serious.

Meanwhile, both Jack Grealish and Kevin De Bruyne were also left out of their respective international squads this month due to groin issues that now complicates matters for Guardiola.

The match against Arsenal is expected to see some strategic changes, as Guardiola battles to avoid another defeat against Mikel Arteta’s side this season.

Recall the two teams are separated by just a point with ten Premier League games to go.