Manchester City faced a significant setback as star striker Erling Haaland was excluded from the squad for the crucial Premier League match against Liverpool due to a knee injury. Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Haaland remains a doubt for the encounter, following a previous absence in the Champions League against Real Madrid. Guardiola expressed concerns over Haaland’s fitness and discussed the implications of missing the striker during this pivotal stage of the season. The team is also contending with other injuries, notably to John Stones, further complicating their lineup as they aim to defend their title.