LONDON, Feb. 14 (Xinhua) -- Manchester City's injury problems have got worse with the news that Swiss international defender Manuel Akanji will be out of action for around 10 weeks with a thigh injury.

City coach Pep Guardiola confirmed Akanji's injury on Friday in his press conference ahead of Saturday's Premier League match at home to Newcastle United.

Akanji was forced off at halftime during City's 3-2 defeat to Real Madrid in their Champions League play-off on Tuesday night, with Guardiola explaining he would have an operation.

"He has surgery on Saturday. Eight to 10 weeks out," said the coach. The defender has made 20 Premier League starts among 30 appearances in all competitions.

"We only wish the best recovery for Manu: The effort he has made this season has been unbelievable (…) In the end the body said enough is enough," commented Guardiola, who had better news regarding winger Jack Grealish, who was also forced off against Real Madrid.

"It's not as tough as what Manu has done, but I don't know if he will be ready tomorrow, (against Newcastle)," he explained.

Man City will try to overturn their Champions League defeat to Real Madrid in the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium next Wednesday. Enditem

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