Nathan Aké injury adds to Man City worries as Liverpool handed Premier League title boost

Nathan Aké injury adds to Man City worries as Liverpool handed Premier League title boost

Nathan Aké was forced off during the first half of Manchester City's clash with Arsenal. The injuries are stacking up for Pep Guardiola, which could be a boost for Liverpool.

Manchester City has been dealt another injury blow after Nathan Aké was forced off during the heavyweight clash with Arsenal. The issue could prove to be a boost to Liverpool’s Premier League title chances.

Aké went down with what looked to be a muscle problem midway through the first-half at the Etihad, with the game still goalless. The Netherlands international was quickly brought off for Rico Lewis in another defensive blow for Pep Guardiola.

Kyle Walker and John Stones both picked up injuries while on international duty with England last week. The former was ruled out of the game against the Gunners, although Stones was able to take a place on the bench.

Furthermore, goalkeeper Ederson was ruled out again before the game as Stefan Ortega deputized again. Ederson picked up an injury during the 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield, and has been out of action since.

Aké’s injury is another issue for Guardiola as his side reaches a crucial period of the season. His side remains in the hunt for the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League as they look to repeat last season’s treble.

City’s injury problems though could provide a boost to Liverpool’s title hopes. The Reds went top of the table before City’s clash with Arsenal thanks to a 2-1 win over Brighton at Anfield.

City’s issues are still nowhere near the levels that Liverpool has faced this season, but they are beginning to face something of a test in their quest for another treble. The title race with Arsenal and the Reds will push them to the extreme, and having injuries hitting in defense certainly isn’t ideal for them.

On paper at least, Guardiola’s side has probably the easiest run-in of the three sides going for the title. Getting injuries in a key area might help to level out the playing surface a bit.