Haaland doubtful for Man City’s clash with Liverpool
The Norwegian was an unused substitute during City's 3-1 loss at the Santiago Bernabeu on 28 february, which saw the holders crash out 6-3 on aggregate.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has admitted Erling Haaland remains uncertain for the crucial Premier League showdown against Liverpool on 3 march, after the striker missed City's Champions League defeat to Real Madrid.
The Norwegian was an unused substitute during City's 3-1 loss at the Santiago Bernabeu on 28 february, which saw the holders crash out 6-3 on aggregate.
"Tomorrow we will know," Guardiola said during his pre-match press conference on 1 march.
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City's January signing Omar Marmoush provides an alternative should Haaland fail to recover, but Guardiola stressed the significance of his star forward, who has netted 27 goals this season.
"It's better to have Erling on the pitch than not," he said. "Of course, with Erling we are stronger."
The City-Liverpool rivalry defined the Premier League for years under Jurgen Klopp. However, Arne Slot has seamlessly taken charge, guiding Liverpool to the top of the table in his debut season.
"For me, it's an exceptional team. I've said many times, they've been the biggest rival during my time here," Guardiola said.
"Arsenal have been involved in recent years as well, but I expected Liverpool to be where they are."
Liverpool hold an eight-point lead over Arsenal, though Mikel Arteta's side, with a game in hand, could narrow the gap to five by beating West Ham on 2 march.
City, meanwhile, sit fourth, 17 points adrift, leaving their hopes of a fifth consecutive title all but over.
Injuries have plagued City's campaign. John Stones faces months out with a thigh tear sustained against Madrid, while Rodri and Manuel Akanji might not feature again this season.
Guardiola blamed the relentless schedule, noting other clubs, including Arsenal, Real Madrid, and Tottenham, are also grappling with serious muscle injuries.
City's season could extend into mid-July due to the Club World Cup, with the next Premier League campaign starting barely a month later.
"Of course, I'm concerned," Guardiola admitted. "Will everyone be fit next season? I don't know.
"We're asking players to endure more than 50 games a season. It's too much for the human body. Once you hit 65 or 70 games, injuries are inevitable.
"It's not just Man City. It's happening to every club."
