PREMIER LEAGUE
Why isn’t Erling Haaland playing for Manchester City against Newcastle in the Premier League?
Pep Guardiola confirmed that the Norwegian would not feature in Manchester City’s clash against Eddie Howe’s side.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola revealed on Friday that start striker Erling Haaland would not be fit for their Premier League clash against Newcastle United at St. James’ Park on Saturday, 13 January (12.30 p.m. ET / 9.30 a.m. PT.).
When asked about an injury update for his squad, the 52-year-old simply said that Erling Haaland was “out” of the running to be in the squad for the game. Before the tie, given the break, there appeared to be a slight possibility that Haaland could feature, although that hope has now been quashed.
The forward has now missed a month of action due to a foot injury, despite having returned to training shortly before his team’s FA Cup win over Huddersfield.
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As well as Guardiola giving an update on Haaland, he also added that “Jack [Grealish] has been sick and hopefully he is back... and John [Stones] is out.” Grealish was ultimately named among the substitutes for the clash, but defender Manuel Akanji also missed the match because of a knock.
The game could well be pivotal in Manchester City’s season as they continue to push to retain the title. Aston Villa are ahead of City (40 pts) by two points, on 42, while Liverpool are top of the league with 45. City, however, have a game in hand on both.
Newcastle have already played - and beaten - Manchester City at St James’ Park this season. Earlier in the campaign, The Magpies beat City 1-0 in the EFL Cup third round, thanks to a second half goal from Alexander Isak.