Man City man sidelined for 11 weeks but Alexander Isak fit for Wembley showdown with Liverpool – rival injury watch | OneFootball

Manchester City suffer a blow as Nathan Ake is ruled out for 11 weeks, but Newcastle United receive a major boost with Alexander Isak fit for the League Cup final.

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Nathan Ake is set for a prolonged spell on the sidelines after undergoing surgery to fix a foot fracture, ruling him out for up to 11 weeks, according to Pep Guardiola.

The Manchester City defender aggravated a long-standing issue in last weekend’s FA Cup victory over Plymouth Argyle, forcing the club’s medical team to opt for surgical intervention.

“When you have surgery it’s serious,” said Guardiola. “He has struggled a lot this season with the problems in his feet.”

The Dutchman’s absence adds to City’s defensive concerns as they push for Champions League qualification, with Guardiola already balancing a squad that has been hit by multiple injuries this season.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe has confirmed that Alexander Isak is fit for the League Cup final against Liverpool on March 16.

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The 25-year-old Swede, who has 22 goals in 31 games this season, was withdrawn during Newcastle’s FA Cup loss to Brighton due to fatigue, sparking fears over his availability for their bid to win a first major trophy since 1955.

“Alex is fine,” said Howe. “Sunday, when he came off, he was feeling a bit fatigued towards the end of the game, some tightness in his body, so we withdrew him. He has trained every day and he’s good.”

Newcastle’s injury list remains a concern, with Anthony Gordon suspended, and Sven Botman and Lewis Hall sidelined.

However, with Isak fit and firing, Howe has his most potent attacking weapon available for their biggest game of the season.