Manchester City has been dealt a blow as Croatian forward Darko Kovacic is set to miss 3-4 weeks of action due to an injury sustained during the recent UEFA Nations League match against Portugal. City manager Pep Guardiola confirmed the news but did not elaborate on the exact nature of the injury.

Kovacic, who managed just 45 minutes in that fixture before being substituted, is expected to return to full fitness by Christmas. His absence leaves Guardiola with fewer attacking options during a crucial stretch of fixtures in the Premier League and Champions League.

In more positive news for City fans, Portuguese defender Ruben Dias is nearing a return. The center-back has resumed full training and could be available for selection in the coming weeks, providing a timely boost to Guardiola’s defensive options.