Pep Guardiola has cast doubt over Erling Haaland’s availability for Manchester City’s crucial Premier League showdown against Liverpool on Sunday.
The Norwegian striker sustained a knee injury during City’s dominant 4-0 victory over Newcastle United last weekend. Despite traveling with the squad to Madrid, Haaland remained on the bench as City suffered a 3-1 defeat to Real Madrid, crashing out of the Champions League.
City are still optimistic that Haaland can feature against Liverpool, but Guardiola confirmed on Friday that the prolific forward, who has netted 27 goals across all competitions this season, will undergo late fitness assessments.
When asked about Haaland’s condition, Guardiola remained uncertain. “I don’t know yet,” he admitted. “We will find out tomorrow.”
Pressed on whether he was hopeful Haaland could play, Guardiola responded, “Maybe, but I don’t know yet. He will train today, and tomorrow we will test him.”
The City boss acknowledged the importance of having Haaland on the field. “Obviously, it’s better to have Erling than not,” he said. “But we are where we are because of the entire team. Everyone plays a role in both our successes and struggles. That said, we are undoubtedly stronger with him.”
Guardiola also shared concerns over John Stones, who was forced off just eight minutes into City’s clash with Real Madrid. The defender may require surgery, adding to City’s injury woes.
“He’s injured, and it’s a tough one,” Guardiola revealed. “In the next few hours or days, we’ll determine if surgery is necessary. If so, it will be a long time out, similar to Manu Akanji.”