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Pep Guardiola has confirmed that John Stones and Kyle Walker will be absent from Sunday’s highly anticipated title showdown between Manchester City and Arsenal.

Walker and Stones who were forced off with injuries while on international duty with the Three Lions missed City’s training session on Thursday.

Walker was forced to leave the pitch during the first half of Saturday’s defeat to Brazil due to what was described as a tight hamstring.

However, it was later revealed that he would undergo a scan, and his availability for the upcoming match against the Gunners remains uncertain, with his chances rated at 50-50.

Stones’ situation was also unclear.

Following Tuesday’s draw against Belgium, England manager Southgate suggested that Stones had an adductor issue in his groin.

The former Everton centre-back appeared uncomfortable when he was substituted just nine minutes into the game.

“Kyle’s [injury is] more tough than John’s but they will be out-  I don’t know for how many games,” said Guardiola at his pre-match press conference on Friday.

“Kevin (De Bruyne) is such an important player, it’s been a tough season for him.

“We will see what we want to do in the next game.”

England international Jack Grealish participated in Thursday’s training session and could be in contention for Sunday’s match, having been unavailable for international duty.

Grealish looked in sparkling form during the away trip to FC Copenhagen in mid-February before picking up a muscle injury.

Consequently, he missed the next eight games.

However, Guardiola has stated that he is progressing well and will undergo assessment over the next two training sessions before a decision is made regarding his participation against the Gunners.

“This season was not perfect for him, but he trained really well,” said the City boss.

“He had a long time not playing, but we will take a decision tomorrow

To see the calendar we have, if we want to fight in all competitions we need all the players.

“The calendar doesn’t look good for us but it is what it is.”

Guardiola also added that Ederson is “much better” and mentioned that Manuel Akanji was “okay.”

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