Man City suffer another setback ahead of Arsenal clash as fifth player retires from international duty

Manuel Akanji has added to Manchester City's injury woes after retiring from Switzerland international duty.

He could now be a doubt to face Premier League leaders Arsenal on Easter Sunday in a match that could decide the title.

City are already facing something of a mini injury crisis ahead of their clash against gunnerswith Ederson, Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish all unavailable or withdrawn from international service this week.

Meanwhile Kyle Walker He limped off against Brazil for England on Saturday night and now Akanji has added to the club's headache.

The Swiss international suffered a knock in the friendly against Belgium and therefore missed training on Monday.

Swiss manager Murat Yakin confirmed the knock ahead of their next match against the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday night.

City's players are due to return to club duty on Thursday, but there could be more bad news for Guardiola.

Erling Haaland Norway is scheduled to play this week's second international match against Slovakia.

The 23-year-old has struggled for form this season and Guardiola would prefer to return to the Etihad as soon as possible.

Haaland has already disclosed a conversation with his club director that revealed the extent of his fury over international injuries, even if it was a bit ironic.

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“(He said) 'if any of you come back not fresh, I'll go after you,' and he smiled,” the forward said.

Guardiola commented last week: “From now on he is no longer my player, what they decide will be fine.

“They know that they fought a lot and trained a lot, a lot of adrenaline and concentration to get to this position.

“They know they are friendly games and they have to handle it wisely. I hope they can do it.”

There has been good news for City, with Portugal allowing Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias to return early to monitor their fitness, while reports suggest Walker could return in time for Sunday.

Footage from Monday's training showed De Bruyne and Grealish training and the club hope they are fit enough to play a part against Arsenal.

City are third in the Premier League behind Liverpool and Arsenal, although only one point separates the top three with ten games remaining.