The Norwegian, who currently leads the Golden Boot race, was absent when the Citizens’ players arrived ahead of the 5:30pm GMT kick-off, prompting speculation.
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Reports from Jan-Aage Fjortoft indicated Haaland sustained a knee issue in training, which Pep Guardiola later confirmed. “Two days ago, in the last moments of training, he had some problems,” Guardiola said. “It’s not serious, but he’s not ready for today.”
With Haaland sidelined, Omar Marmoush is set to spearhead the attack, supported by Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo.
Gianluigi Donnarumma starts in goal behind a defence featuring Ruben Dias and Marc Guehi, while Rodri anchors midfield.