Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has confirmed that four of his key players will be absent from the upcoming Premier League clash against Fulham. However, he also assured fans that star striker Erling Haaland is fit and ready to play.
There were concerns over the fitness of prolific Norwegian striker Erling Haaland after he suffered an ankle knock in last weekend's match against Newcastle. Despite this setback, Haaland started in Tuesday night's Champions League match against Slovan Bratislava and even scored City’s third goal in their 4-0 victory before being substituted after 60 minutes.
Guardiola clarified that this substitution was merely a precautionary measure. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, he confirmed: "Erling is fine."
Key players sidelined with injuries
On the other hand, Kevin De Bruyne continues to struggle with a thigh issue and will not be available for this weekend's match. Other sidelined players include Nathan Ake, Rodri and Oscar Bobb.
Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, said:
‘Everyone else except Nathan, Kevin, Rodri and Oscar. The rest are OK, Kevin is not ready for tomorrow.’
De Bruyne’s absence does not come as a surprise considering he missed the game in Bratislava due to his injury. Earlier this week Guardiola stated: "Hopefully after the international break he [Kevin] will be back." The Belgian midfielder has only participated in four of City’s Premier League games so far this season due to his current injury which occurred during their Champions League match against Inter Milan on 18 September.
A streak at stake
Manchester City have an impressive record against Fulham having won their last 16 meetings - representing the longest ever run of consecutive wins by one Premier League club over another. Despite these statistics heavily favouring Manchester City, Guardiola had nothing but praise for Marco Silva’s Fulham side, highlighting specific threats and players he admires.
The upcoming Premier League match against Fulham will be a test for Manchester City as they navigate the absence of key players. However, with Erling Haaland fit and ready to play, fans can look forward to an exciting game. Guardiola's praise for Fulham also suggests that despite their winning streak, City won't be taking this match lightly.
