A metal-air cell has a first housing part and a second housing part that together form a cell housing. The metal-air cell includes a metal based anode and a layer-shaped air cathode and an electrolyte. The first housing part has at least one air passage opening. A layer-shaped air diffusor is disposed between the first housing part and the air cathode. A layer-shaped separator is arranged between the air cathode and the metal based anode. The layer-shaped air diffuser is air-permeable and has a first side facing the air cathode and a second side facing away from the air cathode, wherein the layer-shaped air diffuser has a hydrophobic coating on at least one of the sides.