February 20th 2025.
Unfortunately, Haaland was unable to join his team for their midweek match against Madrid, resulting in a defeat for Manchester City. However, they must now quickly regroup and refocus as they face Liverpool at Anfield this weekend.
The Champions League loss was a tough blow for Pep Guardiola's squad, who were hoping to make it to the last 16 stage. While they still have the FA Cup to fight for, it seems that securing a top four finish in the Premier League may be their best chance at success this season.
But all is not lost for City, as they have the opportunity to put a dent in Liverpool's title bid when they face off at the Etihad on Sunday. Arne Slot's side dropped points in their recent match against Aston Villa, and another slip-up this weekend could bring Arsenal closer to the top of the league.
However, injuries may pose a challenge for City. John Stones, who has already had a difficult season with multiple injuries, was forced off the field after just four minutes in their match against Real Madrid. While the extent of his injury is yet to be confirmed, it is likely that he will be a doubt for this weekend's game.
Stones now joins Manuel Akanji on the injury list, with the Swiss international facing a 10-week recovery after suffering a thigh injury in the first leg against Madrid. And while Erling Haaland was part of the squad that traveled to Madrid, he did not get any playing time despite his team's desperate need for goals.
There is some hope for City, as Haaland's knee issue from their previous match against Newcastle United seems to have improved. However, there are still concerns about his availability for this weekend's game. Another player who did not see any action in the match against Madrid was Kevin de Bruyne.
On the other hand, Liverpool is also facing some injury concerns. Cody Gakpo, who has been out for their last two games due to a knock he received in the Merseyside derby against Everton, is still uncertain for this weekend's match. His return to training will determine whether or not he will be able to play.
Meanwhile, Joe Gomez is once again sidelined after undergoing hamstring surgery, and Conor Bradley may also miss out due to a knock he received in their draw against Villa.
So, how will both teams line up this weekend? For Manchester City, it is predicted that Ederson, Lewis, Ake, Dias, Gvardiol, Gonzalez, Kovacic, Foden, de Bruyne, Savinho, and Haaland will make up their starting XI. For Liverpool, it is expected that Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Konate, van Dijk, Robertson, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz, and Jota will take the field.
For those wondering where to catch the highly anticipated Man City vs Liverpool match, it will kick off at 4:30pm on Sunday, February 23. Live coverage will be available on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with a live stream also accessible through the Sky Go app and NOW TV.
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