Another key player is in doubt for Manchester City’s clash with Aston Villa | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola revealed earlier today that Ruben Dias is set to be sidelined for the next 3-4 weeks due to a muscle injury. It is a blow for Manchester City to lose their defensive leader on the eve of such a big match. But heading into Manchester City’s clash with Aston Villa, another key player for Pep Guardiola’s side is in doubt for tomorrow’s fixture. That is Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson. Guardiola also revealed that City’s number-one keeper could also miss tomorrow’s match.

Speaking during his pre-game press conference earlier today Pep Guardiola told the media that Ederson was in doubt for Manchester City’s clash with Aston Villa. He told the media: “Ederson, I don’t know if he will be ready for tomorrow (Saturday), and we have to continue, it’s the only thing we have to do.”

If Ederson is ruled out of tomorrow’s match it is expected that Stefan Ortega would start in goal. The German keeper has played well when called upon this season. A decision on Ederson’s availability will be known when the team sheets are released for tomorrow’s match.

READ MORE: Manchester City simply must respond against Aston Villa.

Already Manchester City will be without Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake, Rodri and Oscar Bobb for tomorrow’s match. Ederson could join them on the sidelines based on Pep Guardiola’s update. Just as it seemed that there was relief in sight to City’s injury crisis it looks to be a case of one step forward and two steps back. Manuel Akanji and John Stones have returned to training just as Ruben Dias goes out for 3-4 weeks. Adding Ederson’s fitness issue to the mix just seems like a cruel blow.

Despite this Manchester City’s clash with Aston Villa feels like a must-win match for Pep Guardiola’s side. They will be desperate to pick up three points for their confidence if nothing else. If they have to do it without Ederson and a host of other key players, then so be it. That is the cards that they have been dealt and the hand they must overcome at Villa Park tomorrow.