Man City boss Pep Guardiola confirms Ruben Dias will be sidelined with injury for four weeks

Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Ruben Dias will be sidelined with an injury for three to four weeks.

This news comes as a blow to Manchester City supporters, especially with their current start to the Premier League season and Liverpool’s impressive form under Arne Slot.

As a result, Man City now have only three fit senior defenders: Kyle Walker, Josko Gvardiol, and Rico Lewis.

Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake are both unavailable, while Oscar Bobb and Rodri remain long-term absentees.

In his press conference ahead of Saturday’s Premier League lunchtime kick-off against Aston Villa, Guardiola said: “[Dias will be out for] three or four weeks.

“Muscular, [after] 75 minutes against Manchester United he felt something.

“He is so strong and he stayed on the pitch and now he is injured.

“[Manuel] Akanji is back training the last two days which is good for us.”

Following John Stones’ return against United, albeit as an unused substitute, Guardiola emphasised the importance of the England international.

He added: “Of course it is important he is back and at his best.

“When you are injured for three or four weeks you need time to get back to your best but of course he is important.

“An important player for us for many years.”

Man City will look to get back to winning ways on the road after suffering a 2-1 home defeat to local rivals Manchester United.

Currently in fifth place, Man City are nine points behind leaders Liverpool, who also have a game in hand against Everton.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are dealing with injury recoveries for Ibrahima Konaté and Connor Bradley.

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