Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has confirmed that defender Ruben Dias will be sidelined for “three to four weeks” after picking up an injury against Manchester United.
The 27-year-old played the full 90 minutes against United but picked up a muscle problem with 15 minutes to go, playing through the 2-1 defeat to their rivals.
“He's out for a long time,” Guardiola said ahead of Saturday's upcoming clash against Aston Villa.
“Three or four weeks – muscle problem. (He played) 75 minutes against United and he felt something but he is so strong so he stayed on the field and now he is injured.
Goalkeeper Ederson is also a doubt for the trip to Villa Park with both now on the growing list of City stars out with injuries, Oscar Bobb, Nathan Ake, Manuel Akanji and Rodri all missing from their last visit.
Jeremy Doku, Jack Grealish, Phil Foden and John Stones are other notable names who have spent time in the side so far this season, which has contributed to City's current dip in form. Guardiola's side have managed just one win in their last 11 games.
Manchester City's statistics with and without Ruben Dias in the Premier League this season
Akanji returns to training
Despite the loss of Dias, City will be boosted by the possible return of Akanji, who had missed the last three games due to a groin injury.
“Manuel has been back training the last two days,” continued Pep. “The more that comes back, the better. The boys are ready.
Pep Guardiola shows his confidence against Man Utd
“It's important that everyone is back as good as they can be. When you're injured, you need some time to be at your best.”
Stones was welcomed back into the matchday squad last weekend, leaving Ake the only other absentee in the back four after facing just three fit defenders United. Rico Lewis will return from suspension following his red card against Crystal Palace.
Guardiola: We'll turn it around
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WHAT FINISH! Highlights from the incredible Premier League match between Manchester City and Manchester United
Guardiola admitted he was frustrated after the late collapse against United, which has only compounded their misery over their current run, but has insisted his side can turn things around in the end.
“We were close to winning and we lost the game. I wasn't happy and I had to be honest with myself,” he said when asked about the situation.
“You fall down six times, you have to stand up seven. I'm fine, I'm a normal person. We have to start again.
“You have to try to do it again. Sooner or later, we'll turn it around. I don't know when.”
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