With the Club World Cup fast approaching, last season's Champions League winners Manchester City are favourites. However, one of the biggest concerns for fans is the fitness of the team's top scorer Erling Haaland. Despite Haaland missing part of the game due to injury, Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has said he will feature in the Club World Cup as long as Haaland's ** goes well.
According to Pep Guardiola, Haaland's injury is not a fracture, but a result of excessive pressure. Guardiola stressed that the player's recovery was as fast as expected and that he would be scheduled to play as long as there was no pain. As the most crucial player in Manchester City's squad, Haaland's participation is crucial for Manchester City. Even if the team still has good players such as Alvarez and Foden in attack, Haaland still has no place to take his place.
This season, Haaland has shown great goalscoring efficiency, scoring 19 goals and providing five assists in 20 appearances, making him one of the best goalscorers in Europe. In the absence of De Bruyne, Haaland's ability to attack on his own has also improved, which is undoubtedly good news for Manchester City, who are trying to defend their title. Manchester City won the treble last season and if they win the Club World Cup this season, Haaland will claim his fourth title at Manchester City.
However, the challenge of the Club World Cup is not an easy one. Although Manchester City are heading straight to the semi-finals, a tight schedule and frequent commutings will be a big test for the team and Haaland. In addition, Haaland won the Golden Boot in all three competitions last season and will be expected to continue that feat at the Club World Cup. However, he will face strong competition from the hosts, Jeddah co-captain Karim Benzema.
Karim Benzema, a veteran who has played in the Club World Cup several times, has home advantage and has been in excellent form of late. Jeddah United are a strong team that is by no means an easy opponent to beat, and there is even a chance to speak directly with Manchester City. This will be the pinnacle of the showdown between two top scorers.
For Pep Guardiola, while the Club World Cup title is very important, he stressed that Haaland will only be allowed to play once he is sure he is fit and healthy. Clearly, for Pep Guardiola, Haaland's future is more important than a trophy. While Manchester City are looking for more glory, keeping Haaland healthy will be key to achieving their long-term goals.