Dias, Akanji, Ederson - Man City injury latest and return dates as Pep Guardiola dealt double blow

Manchester City travel to Aston Villa in the Premier League this lunchtime still battling an injury crisis.

Just as things appeared to be easing for the Blues with the return to training of Manuel Akanji, the return to action of Mateo Kovacic and the return to a matchday squad of John Stones, Pep Guardiola revealed a double injury blow. Ruben Dias has a muscle problem that could sideline him for a month while goalkeeper Ederson is also a doubt for the weekend with a knock.

City already have the likes of Oscar Bobb and Rodri on the long-term absentee list and now must deal with a new setback at a time where their form has deserted them. Here's the City injury latest and return dates.

Injury: Muscular

What we know: Guardiola confirmed on Friday that Dias had picked up the problem in the derby defeat to Manchester United but had played through the pain. He is set to be sidelined for three to four weeks.

Potential return date: Brentford (A) January 14

Injury: Knock

What we know: Guardiola said the keeper was struggling with an issue and he is a major doubt for the game at Villa Park.

Potential return date: Everton (H) December 26

Injury: Abductor

What we know: The City boss said Akanji was just battling through fitness issues having been withdrawn at half time in the win over Nottingham Forest. Guardiola has clarified the injury is an abductor and that he should be fit to be involved against Aston Villa, but whether he is in condition to start remains to be seen.

Potential return date: Aston Villa (A) December 21

Injury: Hamstring

What we know: Ake was forced off late on in the win over Forest with a hamstring injury. There were fears it would be serious but while it will keep him out on Sunday, it is understood not