Pep Guardiola, the manager of Manchester City, has explained the rationale for not including Ruben Dias in the lineup for the match at Anfield today.
Despite the Portugal international’s recent steady performances, Manuel Akanji was chosen over him in defense. Nathan Ake and Kyle Walker joined Akanji in a three-man defense.
City, who are currently vying for another Treble this season, are aware that a loss in Merseyside might significantly impede their chances of securing a third consecutive top-flight championship. Guardiola, in an interview with Sky Sports, highlighted why Dias was unlucky to be absent in today’s match against the Reds.
“After considering three to four central defenders, I chose Manu [Manuel Akanji] due to his speed. He will be up against one of the quickest players [Darwin Nunez],” explained the City manager.
The 26-year-old defender will undoubtedly feel unhappy for not being included in the game against Jurgen Klopp’s club, considering the significant importance of the match. This is particularly significant as Arsenal, who are also competing for the title, are closely trailing both teams with only ten games remaining in the fiercely competitive season.
Dias has been named as a substitute only twice this season, during victories over Burnley and Bournemouth with scores of 3-1 and 6-1, respectively. City has numerous matchups to deal with, and this may possibly be a factor in Guardiola’s decision to rest the center-back this afternoon.
Next weekend, the Blues will face Newcastle United in their FA Cup quarter-final match. Following the approaching international break at the end of March, Arsenal will be their next opponent.
