Pep Guardiola has revealed that Erling Haaland is a doubt for Manchester City’s clash with Liverpool this weekend.
City take on the Premier League leaders in a huge showdown at the Etihad on Sunday. Guardiola’s side are aiming to respond to their Champions League exit in midweek, after losing 3-1 at Real Madrid.
Erling Haaland remained an unused substitute for that clash after jarring his knee in last weekend’s win over Newcastle.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Guardiola said he was unsure whether Haaland would be fit to face Liverpool.
“Don’t know yet. Tomorrow we will know it but I don’t know. It’s better to have Erling on the pitch but obviously, we don’t have it but of course with Erling we are stronger.”
PEP 💬 (On Haaland’s fitness) I don’t know yet. Tomorrow we will know. pic.twitter.com/sfTV7Eh9kW
— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 21, 2025
Guardiola also confirmed that John Stones and Manuel Akanji are facing extended spells on the sidelines. Stones was substituted during the defeat at the Bernabeu and could require surgery in the latest setback for the England international. Fellow centre-back Akanji is also facing around eight to 10 weeks out with an abductor injury.
“He’s (Stones) injured, difficult one, next hours/days we will know whether he needs surgery or not.
When asked whether Stones is set for another extended spell on the sidelines, the Spaniard added: “Yes, like Manuel Akanji.”
