Why is Erling Haaland not playing for Manchester City against Crystal Palace?

After three games away from home, Manchester City return to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday (10 am ET kick-off), where they welcome Roy Hodgson’s Crystal Palace.

Striker Erling Haaland will not feature in City’s Premier League clash with Palace in Manchester.

Haaland out for City

Haaland is currently sidelined with a foot injury that has seen him miss the club’s recent matches against Luton Town in the Premier League and Red Star Belgrade in the Champions League in midweek.

Without the Norwegian striker in the squad, Argentina forward Julián Álvarez will lead the line for City on Saturday as they look to end their week with another victory and climb back into the top three in the league.

Guardiola on Haaland

Speaking at his press conference on Friday, City boss Pep Guardiola said he did not expect Haaland to play against Palace as he continues to struggle with a foot problem.

Guardiola admitted that the 23-year-old has been receiving treatment for the issue.

“He’s been having treatment away,” said Guardiola. “He arrived today (Friday) and we’ll see; the doctors will see him.

“Hopefully he can travel to Saudi after the game and after we’ll see if he’s able to play the first game or second.”

When asked if he was worried about the Norwegian’s injury, Guardiola responded: “No, it’s not structure, it’s just stress. Day by day, week by week, we have to see how he feels.”