Manchester City’s prolific striker, Erling Haaland, is expected to sit out Wednesday’s EFL Cup clash against Tottenham Hotspur, according to City expert Steven McInerney. Haaland has dazzled with 14 goals in 13 appearances this season, including his 11th Premier League goal in a recent 1-0 victory over Southampton, but with City’s packed schedule, Pep Guardiola may choose to rest his star forward.
Guardiola has already hinted he won’t prioritize the EFL Cup this year, focusing instead on defending both the Premier League and Champions League titles. With Haaland recently seen in Sweden, catching Malmo’s game, Guardiola may opt for academy talent to fill the squad amid six ongoing injuries to first-team players. Fans could see promising youngsters like 16-year-old Kaden Braithwaite, Nico O’Reilly, and James McAtee stepping into the spotlight.
Speaking to Sports Mole, McInerney expects Guardiola to be “brutal with the changes” due to the team’s injury concerns. “I’m not confident about this game,” he admitted, noting Spurs have fewer injury woes and may field a stronger squad. “I reckon City are going to play a couple of kids… Maybe McAtee as a false nine?” He adds, “I’d be amazed if Haaland starts, given how exhausted he looked against Southampton.”
McInerney further speculated on City’s chances against Tottenham, predicting that the much-changed lineup might struggle to keep up. “Spurs have a lot of options to refresh their team, and with their momentum, I wouldn’t be surprised if they knock City out,” he said. He hinted City’s academy stars could put up a solid fight, but he’s “expecting City to go out 2-1.”
City’s record against Spurs has improved recently, with wins in their last two away trips to Tottenham, but they may face a tough challenge Wednesday. While City remains unbeaten this season, Spurs will be looking to bounce back after a 1-0 loss to Crystal Palace.
