As Manchester City gears up for their Premier League clash against Brentford at the Etihad Stadium, all eyes are on the availability of Erling Haaland—a key question mark for manager Pep Guardiola.
Haaland’s participation is uncertain due to the recent passing of his close family friend, Ivar Eggja. This tragic loss may impact the striker both mentally and physically. Guardiola has indicated that a decision will be made on the day of the match, with the possibility of Haaland being granted compassionate leave.
Aside from Haaland’s potential absence, the rest of City’s squad is shaping up well. Rodri, who has yet to feature this season, looks set to make his return after playing an hour in Spain’s Nations League victory over Switzerland last Sunday.
Phil Foden, who withdrew from the England squad due to illness, has been back in training with City since Wednesday. Foden, who hasn’t appeared in City’s last two games, was substituted in the opening match against Chelsea and will be aiming to regain match fitness.
Savinho is also expected to return to the squad after missing the West Ham game due to a knee issue. His absence was notable, as Foden did not step in to replace him as he did against Chelsea.
However, the return of these players comes with its own set of challenges. Nathan Ake, alongside Oscar Bobb, will be sidelined. Ake, who sustained an injury during the Netherlands’ Nations League fixture against Germany, may be out for up to a month. Guardiola has suggested Ake might not return until after the October international break, missing key fixtures against Arsenal and Inter Milan in the Champions League.
Bobb’s situation is more long-term. Having undergone surgery for a fractured bone in his leg before the season commenced, Bobb is expected to be out for three to four months. This timeline could see him missing the November international break and potentially extending into December.
