This archive report was first published on 4 November 2019.
Manchester City's title hopes have been dealt a blow with playmaker David Silva facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a muscular injury.
According to manager Pep Guardiola, Silva was injured during the team's 2-1 win over Southampton on Saturday and was replaced by striker Gabriel Jesus just before halftime.
“David Silva was injured. Five minutes before the first half ended he told me he had a muscular problem,” Guardiola told reporters.
Guardiola's assessment suggests that Silva will be out for at least 10-12 days, which could be a significant blow to Manchester City's chances of catching Liverpool, who are currently six points ahead.
Manchester City face Liverpool at Anfield on November 10, four days after visiting Italy's Atalanta in the Champions League.
Guardiola downplayed the significance of the upcoming match, stating that it was too early in the campaign to view Sunday's match as being decisive in terms of the title race.
“Now we go to Italy and when we come back we go to Anfield. We will see,” he added. “Many things are going to happen and there are a lot of games to play.”
