Manchester City’s highly-rated striker Erling Haaland has suffered a groin injury ahead of their crucial Premier League games against Liverpool and Southampton. Haaland left the Norway squad during the international break due to the injury, and Pep Guardiola is eagerly waiting for his return to see if he can be a part of the team’s training session on Friday.
Haaland Misses Team Training before Liverpool Game
Haaland missed the team training before the game against Liverpool, leaving Manchester City without their talismanic striker in such an important encounter. However, Manchester City managed to secure a 1-0 win over Liverpool without their top scorer.
Guardiola’s Positive Update on Haaland’s Recovery
The news regarding Haaland’s injury brought doubts over his availability for the upcoming games in multiple competitions. However, Pep Guardiola has given a fairly positive update on his recovery, stating that they are taking all necessary measures for his treatment and rehabilitation.
Haaland’s Stunning Form and His Impact on Manchester City’s Pursuit of Treble
Haaland has been in sensational form this season, scoring 42 goals in all competitions for Manchester City. His role has been instrumental in helping them remain competitive in all three competitions they are currently pursuing – Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League. With his injury concerns looming over, Manchester City is hoping for a speedy recovery for their key player.
Julian Alvarez Could Step In If Needed
If Erling Haaland remains unavailable for the upcoming games, Manchester City is likely to opt for Julian Alvarez to fill in his shoes. Alvarez has been an important part of Pep Guardiola’s squad this season and will look to impress another opportunity provided to him.
Title: Manchester City’s Record-Breaking History
Manchester City is one of the most dominant teams in English football, and their current team is on track to win a third consecutive Premier League trophy under the guidance of Pep Guardiola. However, the history of Manchester City dates back to the 1930s, where they have had some record-breaking seasons.
City’s Relegation Despite Record-Breaking Scoring
In the 1936/37 season, Manchester City won their maiden top-flight title and scored an impressive 107 goals. However, in the following season, despite being the top scorer, they were relegated to second-tier. Ironically, West Bromwich Albion was also relegated with superior goal difference than Manchester City.
City’s Return to Topflight
Manchester City returned to the top-flight after winning the 1946/47 league title. Since then, they have continued their dominance in English football with some notable records.
Breaking Records Under Guardiola’s Tenure
Pep Guardiola has won the Premier League four times with Manchester City and broke multiple records during his tenure. In the 2017/18 season, Manchester City won the league with a record-breaking 100 points.
Title: Players Who Missed Out on Premier League Winner’s Medals
The Premier League is one of the most prestigious leagues in world football. Only 23 players are eligible to receive a winner’s medal in this competition.
The Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for a winner’s medal, players must make at least five appearances in the Premier League. The previous rules stated that players should make ten appearances to qualify for a medal.
Notable Players Who Have Missed Out on Winner’s Medals
Gary Neville missed out on two potential winner’s medals due to this rule during his illustrious career at Manchester United. Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah missed out on a winner’s medal when he left Chelsea midway through a season.
Others Who Missed Out on Medals Due to Injuries and Limited Playing Time
Owen Hargreaves missed out on medals due to injury and limited playing time at Manchester United and Manchester City. David Batty declined the medal offered to him as he felt he did not contribute enough to Blackburn Rovers’ title win in 1994/95 season. Federico Macheda missed out on a medal despite scoring a crucial winning goal for Manchester United during the 2008/09 season.
Nemanja Matic’s Redemption
Nemanja Matic received winner’s medals with Chelsea in 2015 and 2017 after limited playing time during his first stint with the club. Scott Parker, who made only four appearances in Chelsea’s 2004/05 title-winning season, never won another title afterward. Micah Richards missed out on a medal due to injury and poor form during Manchester City’s 2013/14 season, while Andrej Kramaric missed out with Leicester City due to his loan move halfway through their title-winning campaign.
In conclusion, the upcoming games are crucial for Manchester City, and their injury concerns for Erling Haaland have put them in worry. Still, their past dominance and record-breaking seasons are a testament to their quality, making them one of the most feared teams in English football history. The Premier League winner’s medals hold high prestige in football, but many notable players have missed out on this honor under unique circumstances.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
