Man City suffer ‘blow’ after Nathan Ake update – pundit
Gabriel Agbonlahor has claimed losing Nathan Ake to injury will be a “blow” to Man City.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Aston Villa striker said City have enough options to cope with Ake’s absence.
The 27-year-old was forced off the pitch after 21 minutes in the Sky Blues’ game against Newcastle on Sunday (21 August).
He was replaced by Ruben Dias for the remainder of the match which finished 3-3.
Ake has started all of City’s games so far this season.
As quoted by the Manchester Evening News after the game (22 August), Pep Guardiola confirmed the Netherlands international has suffered a groin injury.
The Manchester boss added that Ake won’t feature in the friendly against Barcelona on Wednesday (24 August).
The timeframe for the defender’s return is said to be unclear.
On 4 July the Cityzens confirmed the signing of Kalvin Phillips from Leeds United on a six-year-deal.
When asked how big a blow it will be for City to lose Ake, Agbonlahor told Football Insider: “I think it will be a blow but I think Man City are the sort of team that will be fine.
“They’ve [John] Stones, [Ruben] Dias, Rodri who can go back there and do a job.
“Teams don’t really attack Man City as much as they do other clubs. Yes, Newcastle did but other teams sort of try and park the bus against City.
“There’s Kalvin Phillips who can come in and play there as well. So, City will be fine it won’t be a worry at all.“
In other news, a pundit has claimed Kieran Trippier deserves extended ban as Newcastle United controversy analysed.