Haaland May Not Play in FA Cup Game; Young Players Could Get a Chance

Manchester City will play Salford City in the FA Cup. Star player Erling Haaland might not play because he has a small injury. The team may let some young players join the game.
By Newsroom | Football, Manchester |

Manchester City faces Salford City in the FA Cup fourth round, with striker Erling Haaland's availability uncertain due to a recent injury scare. Manager Pep Guardiola may turn to younger players to fill potential gaps in the squad.

Man City XI vs Salford: Haaland injury latest, predicted lineup, confirmed team news for FA Cup today - 1

Player Availability Concerns

Erling Haaland, Manchester City's prolific forward, is listed as doubtful for the FA Cup tie against Salford City. He was substituted at halftime during the recent match against Fulham due to what has been described as "niggles" and "disturbances" during the game. While manager Pep Guardiola stated the issue is "not a big issue," he has not confirmed if Haaland will be fit to play.

Man City XI vs Salford: Haaland injury latest, predicted lineup, confirmed team news for FA Cup today - 2

"He had some disturbances during the game, that’s why he didn’t play the second half. We’ll see today [if he can be involved vs Salford]." - Pep Guardiola

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John Stones, a defender, also has an uncertain status for the match. He made his return to the matchday squad in midweek but his participation against Salford has not been confirmed.

Man City XI vs Salford: Haaland injury latest, predicted lineup, confirmed team news for FA Cup today - 3

Several other players are confirmed to be out with injuries:

Man City XI vs Salford: Haaland injury latest, predicted lineup, confirmed team news for FA Cup today - 4

  • Josko Gvardiol: Tibial fracture.

  • Mateo Kovacic: Ankle/heel issues.

  • Jeremy Doku: Calf injury.

  • Savinho: Unspecified injury.

Predicted Lineup and Young Talent

With potential absences, Manchester City may rely on emerging talent. A predicted formation of 4-1-4-1 has been suggested, with Omar Marmoush potentially leading the line in Haaland's stead. Marmoush has a proven record in cup competitions, scoring twice in a recent match against Newcastle.

Young players who might feature include:

  • Max Alleyne: A young defender who has had some challenging recent performances.

  • Ryan McAidoo: A 17-year-old forward who scored on his debut against Exeter City.

  • Rico Lewis: Expected to play at right-back.

  • Nico Gonzalez: Expected to feature at the base of midfield.

  • Rayan Cherki: Could play in advanced midfield roles.

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A possible starting lineup identified across multiple reports is: Trafford; Lewis, Khusanov, Alleyne, Ake; Gonzalez; McAidoo, Reijnders, Foden, Cherki; Marmoush.

Recent Performances and Context

Manchester City is coming off a 3-0 home win against Fulham and an 8-0 victory over Salford City in the third round of the FA Cup last season. They are currently in strong form, unbeaten in their last six matches across all competitions. Salford City, meanwhile, has experienced mixed results, with two defeats in their last three league outings.

Player Injury Histories

  • Erling Haaland: Experienced discomfort during the Fulham match, leading to his substitution at halftime. The issue is described as fatigue or "niggles."

  • Ruben Dias: Is on a comeback trail from an injury and has recently returned to the squad, playing as a substitute against Liverpool.

  • Abdukodir Khusanov: Suffered a head injury in a match against Liverpool but has since returned to play.

  • John Stones: Has had limited game time this season and is being assessed for his availability.

Managerial Approach

Pep Guardiola has indicated that decisions on Haaland and Stones will be made after Friday's training session. He has also suggested a willingness to rotate the squad, a strategy evident in their 10-1 win over Exeter City in the previous round of the FA Cup.

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"His first City goal came in this fixture last season." - Referring to a young player potentially playing against Salford.

Conclusion and Outlook

Manchester City enters the match as strong favorites against League Two side Salford City. The primary focus remains on the fitness of key players like Erling Haaland and John Stones. The potential involvement of several young players suggests a strategic rotation by manager Pep Guardiola, balancing the need for a win with squad development and player recovery. The team's recent performances indicate a strong position to advance to the next round of the FA Cup.

Sources:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will Erling Haaland play against Salford City?
It is not sure. He has a small injury and the team will check him before the game.
Q: Which young players might play?
Players like Max Alleyne, Ryan McAidoo, and Rico Lewis could get a chance to play.
Q: Are other players injured?
Yes, Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic, and Jeremy Doku are out with injuries.