• Premier League

Nasri set to miss Arsenal clash

ESPN staff
September 21, 2012
Samir Nasri limped out of Man City's Champions League defeat to Real Madrid © PA Photos
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Samir Nasri looks likely to miss Manchester City's Premier League showdown with former club Arsenal this weekend with a hamstring problem.

Nasri limped off during City's Champions League defeat to Real Madrid on Tuesday night, and while the problem does not appear to be serious manager Roberto Mancini believes the midfielder will not be ready in time for Sunday's match.

"I do not think he will be ready for Sunday," Mancini said. "We will try but it is difficult. I hope he will be okay for next week."

There was better news for Mancini on the fitness of striker Sergio Aguero, who should be ready to make a erturn after injuring his knee on the opening day of the season against Southampton.

And the Italian also downplayed reports of new rift between himself and Mario Balotelli, refuting claims the pair had a bust-up prior to Tuesday night's match at the Bernebeu.

"This story is totally false," Mancini insisted. "Mario went in the stand only because we started to play with Carlos Tevez in attack and we couldn't have three strikers on the bench.

"There has been no argument, and no row. Absolutely not."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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