Nicolás Otamendi, the Argentine defender who has been a key player in Manchester City's defense this season, is set to miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury sustained during training on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old was involved in a collision with teammate Benjamin Mendy and fell awkwardly on his right knee. He was taken to hospital where doctors diagnosed him with a meniscus tear, which is a serious injury that requires surgery and rehabilitation.

Otamendi will undergo surgery next week and is expected to be out of action for six months or more. The news comes as a major blow to City, who have already lost several players to injuries this season, including Kevin De Bruyne,La Liga Frontline Gabriel Jesus and Leroy Sane.

City have now confirmed that they will look to replace Otamendi with another experienced defender, although they will need to do so quickly as their remaining fixtures include games against Chelsea and Arsenal in the Premier League, as well as the Champions League quarter-final first leg against Atletico Madrid.

It remains to be seen whether Otamendi's replacement will be able to step up to the level required by City, given his injury history. However, the club will be hoping that they can find someone who can provide similar defensive stability and leadership as Otamendi has done in recent seasons.

For now, City will have to deal without their key defender and focus on finding a solution to the problem before the end of the season.

• for
• Update
• injuries
• Otamendi
• Nicol