The manager of Manchester City, Pep Guardiola, has indicated that Erling Haaland (24) is still uncertain for the upcoming Premier League match against Liverpool this Sunday, following his absence during the team’s Champions League exit to Real Madrid.
The Norwegian striker started on the bench at the Santiago Bernabeu but didn’t make it onto the pitch as City suffered a 3-1 defeat on Wednesday, resulting in a 6-3 aggregate loss.
“We will know more tomorrow,” Guardiola stated during his Friday pre-match press conference.
Guardiola’s January acquisition of Omar Marmoush provides a backup option should Haaland be unable to recover in time for the match against the league leaders; however, the City boss acknowledged the significance of his 27-goal marquee player.
“Having Erling on the field is always preferable,” he remarked. “With Erling, we are certainly stronger.”
The ongoing rivalry between Guardiola’s City and Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool has defined a significant chapter in Premier League history.
However, following Klopp’s departure, Arne Slot has seamlessly taken the reins, steering the Reds toward a potential title in his inaugural season at the helm.
“In my view, it’s an exceptional team. I have repeatedly mentioned that they have been our fiercest competitors during my time here,” remarked Guardiola.
“Arsenal has also been a contender in recent years, but I cannot say I was surprised to see Liverpool in the position they are currently in.”
Liverpool enjoys an eight-point advantage over Arsenal, who possess a game in hand and are set to face West Ham on Saturday, likely narrowing the gap to five points.
After winning four consecutive titles, City’s campaign to defend their championship appears to be all but over, as they sit 17 points behind Liverpool in fourth place.
Injuries have significantly contributed to City’s struggles this season.
John Stones is expected to be sidelined for another few months after suffering a thigh injury early in the match against Madrid, while Rodri and Manuel Akanji may also miss the remainder of the season.
Guardiola attributed the issues to a demanding schedule, noting that Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Tottenham are also grappling with a slew of serious muscle injuries throughout the campaign.
City’s season could extend into mid-July due to their involvement in the Club World Cup, with the next Premier League season starting less than a month later.
Guardiola expressed concern over a potential repeat of this season’s issues, which could impede City’s ability to rebound and compete for key titles.
“Naturally, I have worries. Will everyone be fit next season? It’s hard to say what will occur,” he added.
“We already have several players who can’t handle the demands we’ve faced in the past, week in and week out, playing in various competitions and travelling extensively, even without issues.
“More than 50 games is excessive for players. The human body cannot cope with that volume without encountering medical problems.
“We typically end up playing 65 to 70 games, and look where we are now. This situation isn’t limited to Manchester City; it affects all clubs.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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