Man Cityvs.Chelsea

The 27-year-old was sidelined for six matches with a muscle injury before returning to the Citizens starting lineup for last weekend's emphatic 6-0 victory over Ipswich Town.

Dias then retained his place in Pep Guardiola's starting lineup as Man City suffered a disappointing 4-2 defeat away against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday night.

Some Citizens supporters were surprised to see the Portugal international replaced at half time at the Parc des Princes, with his substitution raising concerns about his fitness.

Guardiola has since confirmed that his decision to take the defender off was enforced after he asked to be replaced at the interval.

Speaking at his post-match press conference about Dias, Guardiola said: "He didn't feel good. He asked to be replaced because he didn't feel good. I don't think [that he will be out for a long time] but he said he could not play in the second half."

Dias one of four Man City players doubtful for Chelsea clash

Guardiola's other half-time alteration appeared to be a masterstroke, as Jack Grealish scored just four minutes after coming off the bench before contributing to Man City's second goal on the night scored by Erling Haaland just three minutes later.

However, Man City swiftly threw away their advantage, with three goals in the space of 22 minutes followed by Goncalo Ramos adding a fourth in stoppage time to secure victory for PSG, leaving the Citizens 25th in the Champions League standings and in serious danger of failing to qualify for the last 16.

Man City are now sweating over the fitness of Dias, who is one of four players along with Nathan Ake, Oscar Bobb and Jeremy Doku who is doubtful for Saturday's Premier League encounter with Chelsea.

The potential absence of both Dias and Ake could force Guardiola to hand either Abdukodir Khusanov or Vitor Reis their Man City debut after joining the club from Lens and Palmeiras respectively earlier this week.

Manuel Akanji is likely to retain his starting spot, while John Stones recovered from a foot injury to play the final 13 minutes as a substitute against PSG, and he could also be in contention to start against Chelsea.

Josko Gvardiol is another centre-back option, and briefly played in the heart of defence during the second half against PSG following Dias's withdrawal, but Guardiola may prefer to play the Croatian on the left side of his defence.

Written by

Oliver Thomas