Erling Haaland Sidelined: The Real Reason Behind Man City Star's Absence Against Salford
Manchester City will be without striker Erling Haaland when they take on Salford City in Saturday's FA Cup fourth round clash.
The Norwegian forward has faced criticism lately due to his recent dip in performance, notably failing to find the net during the commanding 10-1 victory over Exeter City in the previous round of the tournament.
However, he won't have the opportunity to silence his critics this Saturday. Here's the reason behind Haaland's absence from the Man City squad.
Pep Guardiola's Pre-Match Admission
Pep Guardiola's Pre-Match Admission
Haaland was unable to finish the full match in his last appearance, being substituted at the interval during the encounter with Fulham. Boss Pep Guardiola subsequently revealed that the forward had picked up an injury.
When questioned about Haaland's availability for the Salford match, Guardiola stated at Friday's media briefing: "Erling isn't fully fit. It's nothing serious, according to our medical team. But he experienced some discomfort before and throughout the match, which is why he didn't feature in the second half.
"We'll monitor his progress."
Haaland was absent from City's Friday training session photographs, indicating he hasn't recovered sufficiently from the injury ahead of Saturday's fourth-round encounter.
In truth, this fixture presents a perfect opportunity for City, who remain heavy favorites to defeat Salford despite missing their leading goalscorer. Saturday's opponents are currently fighting for promotion in League Two, and City will be confident of securing a comfortable victory with any lineup they field.
By resting Haaland, Guardiola aims to ensure his key striker returns to full fitness for next Saturday's home match against Newcastle United.
Man City Confirmed XI vs. Salford
Man City Confirmed XI vs. Salford
Taking Haaland's position in the attacking line is Omar Marmoush, who partners with Phil Foden and Rayan Cherki to form an exciting front three.
Gianluigi Donnarumma, Rodri, Marc Guéhi and Antoine Semenyo feature among the substitutes, while Bernardo Silva also sits out alongside Haaland.
Man City starting XI vs. Salford (4-3-3): Trafford; Khusanov, Stones, Alleyne, Aït-Nouri; Nico, Lewis, Reijnders; Foden, Marmoush, Cherki.
Subs: Donnarumma, Dias, Guéhi, Rodri, Nunes, O'Reilly, Semenyo, McAidoo, Samba.