Manchester City are anxiously awaiting Erling Haaland's recovery from injury ahead of their Wednesday clash with Everton.
Despite Sean Dyche's historically poor record against Pep Guardiola, Everton pose a significant threat to City's defense of the Premier League title following their victory in the Club World Cup.
Haaland's absence in the Club World Cup campaign due to a foot injury has raised concerns, and Guardiola, who could only train individually before the Fluminense match, is expected to provide an update on the Norwegian striker's availability for the Everton game.
While Dyche hopes to see City's crucial midfielder Rodri sidelined due to an injury scare suffered in the cup final, the player insists he will be fit to face Everton despite an ankle injury. Jeremy Doku and Kevin De Bruyne are the only other injury concerns, with Doku unable to train fully before the Fluminense game and De Bruyne expected to be gradually reintroduced despite returning to full team sessions.
Guardiola faces decisions regarding his defensive lineup against Everton, with John Stones, Manuel Akanji, and Ruben Dias featuring in Saudi Arabia, and Nathan Ake being the preferred left-back. The midfield selection is also a consideration, with Rico Lewis competing with Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes to partner with Rodri. If Haaland is fit, Guardiola must decide between Jack Grealish and Phil Foden, with one of them likely to be benched.
Manchester City injury list and expected return dates ahead of Everton clash
- Rodrigo: Ankle/Foot Injury
- Kevin De Bruyne: Thigh Injury
- Jeremy Doku: Other
- Erling Haaland: Ankle/Foot Injury
Source: Premier League injuries / Join us on Telegram!/ Follow us on Twitter!