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Published on 2024-02-02 15:00:00
Pep Guardiola has revealed that Erling Haaland could make his first start for Manchester City since December. The 23-year-old, who is currently joint-leader for the Premier League Golden Boot, missed 10 consecutive matches for the team before returning against Burnley at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday evening.
Haaland came on as a substitute for Kevin De Bruyne during the 3-1 win over Vincent Kompany’s side and it was his first appearance since a 1-0 loss to Aston Villa in early December.
Haaland has missed matches in the Premier League, Emirates FA Cup, UEFA Champions League, and FIFA Club World Cup due to a foot injury, but there are indications that he could start against Brentford on Monday evening in West London.
Manchester City are set to travel to Gtech Community Stadium in the Premier League for the first of two meetings with Brentford this month, due to a postponed fixture in December.
Thomas Frank’s side defeated Manchester City both home and away last season and have welcomed striker Ivan Toney back from an eight-month ban. Toney scored twice during a 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium in 2022, and Manchester City also suffered a 1-0 loss away to Brentford in May.
Despite Haaland’s failure to score against Brentford last season, there is a chance for him to net his first goal since November this weekend, as Guardiola revealed that he could start for City.
The Manchester City boss shared that Haaland is “ready” to start and there are no fitness concerns for the squad ahead of Monday’s clash. Additionally, defensive duo John Stones and Manuel Akanji have returned from injury, adding to the team’s strength.
There is optimism surrounding Haaland’s potential return to the starting lineup, and with other key players also back from injury, Manchester City will be looking to secure a win against Brentford on Monday evening.
Read Original article on City Xtra
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