Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola announced the absence of his Swiss defender Manuel Akanji for a period ranging from 8 to 10 weeks after suffering a severe muscle injury close to Real Madrid in the Champions League.

Guardiola confirmed that Akanji will undergo surgery on Saturday, noting that the injury came as a result of the great pressure that the player suffered throughout the season.

The Spanish coach said in his statements: "Akanji suffers from a rupture of the close muscle and will be absent for a long time. We wish him a speedy recovery. He made an amazing effort this season."

Guardiola explained that Akanji and Nathan Aki endured great pressure this season due to the injuries that struck the defense line, which led them to play in difficult circumstances despite their complete lack of readiness.

He added: "They made a great effort to help the team under the lack of defenders, but in the end, the body said enough."

The absence of Akanji is a heavy blow to Manchester City in the decisive stages of the season, as Guardiola relies heavily on the Swiss defender at the heart of the defense.