Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided an important injury update ahead of their highly anticipated Premier League showdown against Liverpool. The match, set to take place at the Etihad Stadium, is expected to be a crucial fixture in the title race. However, City will have to navigate this challenge without one of their key defensive players.
John Stones, who sustained an injury during City’s Champions League encounter with Real Madrid, has been ruled out of the Sunday fixture. Speaking to the media, Guardiola confirmed the seriousness of Stones’ condition and hinted at the possibility of surgery. “He’s injured, a difficult one,” the City boss explained. “In the next hours or days, we’ll find out if he needs surgery or not.” The defender’s absence adds to City’s growing concerns in defense, as Manuel Akanji is also sidelined, leaving the squad with limited options at the back.
Liverpool is dealing with injury issues of their own, with Conor Bradley, Joe Gomez, and Tyler Morton unavailable for selection. However, the biggest fitness concern ahead of this match revolves around City’s star striker, Erling Haaland. The Norwegian forward picked up a knee injury during City’s win over Newcastle and was left on the bench during the Real Madrid game, leading to speculation about whether he will be fit to face Liverpool.
Guardiola remained cautious when addressing Haaland’s availability. “I don’t know yet,” he admitted. “Tomorrow we will have more clarity. Maybe he plays, but I really don’t know yet. He will train tomorrow, and we will see. Of course, having Erling on the pitch makes us stronger.” Given his exceptional goal-scoring record, Haaland’s absence would be a major setback for City. The 24-year-old has already scored 117 goals in less than three full seasons, establishing himself as one of the most lethal strikers in world football.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Haaland, City has another option in Omar Marmoush. The January signing, who was previously linked with Liverpool, made a stunning impact last weekend, netting a first-half hat-trick against Newcastle. If Haaland is deemed unfit to start, Guardiola may entrust Marmoush with leading the attack.
On the defensive end, City’s injury woes could create opportunities for Liverpool’s attacking players. Mohamed Salah, in particular, will be eager to exploit any weaknesses in City’s backline. The Egyptian has an impressive track record against Guardiola’s side, having found the net 12 times in 21 appearances against them.
However, Liverpool will also have to be wary of City’s tactical flexibility. Guardiola has frequently adjusted his team’s formation and approach in key matches, compensating for missing players with strategic changes. With the Catalan coach known for his innovative tactics, another unexpected shift could be on the cards for this crucial encounter.
Both teams enter the match under immense pressure due to the highly competitive title race. A victory for either side could prove decisive in shaping their championship aspirations, while a loss may leave them struggling to keep up with their rivals.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot faces his own challenges in selecting a competitive lineup, particularly in defense and midfield. With Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley ruled out, Liverpool’s backline could be exposed against City’s potent attacking force. As a result, captain Virgil van Dijk will play a key role in organizing and stabilizing the defense.
Meanwhile, City’s midfield, led by Rodri and Kevin De Bruyne, will be instrumental in controlling the game’s tempo. De Bruyne, who has been in exceptional form, will be tasked with creating goal-scoring opportunities, while Rodri’s defensive work will be essential in stopping Liverpool’s counter-attacks.
As matchday approaches, fans of both clubs will anxiously await the official team announcements, particularly regarding Haaland’s availability. While Stones has already been ruled out, Haaland’s presence or absence could significantly impact the game’s outcome.
Regardless of the injury setbacks on both sides, Sunday’s match promises to be a thrilling contest between two of England’s top teams. With the Premier League title race intensifying, this encounter could prove to be a defining moment in the season for both Manchester City and Liverpool.
