Man City suffer double injury blow on eve of Aston Villa clash

Aston Villa's opponents Manchester City have been dealt an injury blow on the eve of their Premier League clash.

The Citizens travel to Villa Park on Saturday (December 21) for the Saturday lunch time kick-off as the game is being broadcast on TNT Sport. Pep Guardiola revealed in his pre-match press conference revealed that he would be 100% without one of his star players for the trip.

Ruben Dias is set to be out for up to a month after suffering a muscular injury in the defeat to Manchester United. The 27-year-old has had some injury problems this season and missed a bit of the season in November.

“Ruben is out for a long time and Ederson, I don’t know if he will be ready for tomorrow,” Guardiola said to Sky Sports.

“It will be three to four weeks. In the 75th minute against United he felt something muscular, he is so strong and wanted to stay on the pitch and now he is injured.”

First choice goalkeeper Ederson is also doubtful. The Brazilian was recently dropped for the last three league matches but was recalled for the Manchester Derby. Stefan Ortega would take his place in between the sticks again if Ederson cannot overcome a late fitness test.

Manuel Akanji is both doubtful. He’s been sidelined through injury in recent weeks but returned to training in the build-up to this match. John Stones was named in the match day squad against Man United last Sunday, but hasn’t trained much. The centre back pair only began training properly on Thursday so their status is doubtful.

Rodri, Oscar Bobb, and Nathan Ake are all missing through injury this weekend. Ballon d'Or winner Rodri suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in September and is out for the remainder of the campaign. Bobb suffered a leg fracture just a few weeks out before the season was due to begin and he could return next month or in February.