This season has been a rollercoaster journey for Manchester City. While they dominated the Champions League group stage with immaculate performances, the Premier League has been hit and miss. The Cityzens drew 2-2 with Crystal Palace just hours ago, dropping them to fourth place and three points behind champions Liverpool. As if that wasn’t enough, according to a well-known soccer analyst, Pep Guardiola and Co. might be trailing by ‘eight or nine’ points when they return from the Club World Cup. 

Furthermore, Erling Haaland’s injury has harmed the Sky Blues in the process. The Norwegian international is currently out with a foot ailment and has missed the club’s recent matches. 

Manchester City could suffer a major domestic setback as a result of their participation in the Club World Cup

A Jack Grealish goal and Rico Lewis’ first league goal fell short against the Eagles’ amazing comeback. Following the loss, ESPN pundit Don Hutchison expressed concern for the championship holders, pointing out that they were held for a draw against Liverpool and Tottenham. “I think the biggest worry for Man City fans right now is that City are off to the Club World Cup, and when they return, I’m pretty sure they play Everton in a couple of weeks.” “How many points will they be down by then?” 

Pep Guardiola and his team will fly to Saudi Arabia to face Urawa Red Diamonds in the Club World Cup semi-finals at King Abdullah Sports City. As a result, Hutchison stated his worries over City’s form following the key match. “What kind of shape will they be in when they return?” He said, “They could be eight or nine minutes behind.” This analysis is undoubtedly bad news for City supporters. Nonetheless, they will be looking to return to winning ways. In the meantime, Guardiola provided an important update on Erling Haaland’s availability for the Club World Cup. 

Is Erling Haaland fit for the Club World Cup? – Pep Guardiola’s opinion

Pep Guardiola discussed Erling Haaland’s injury issue before the game against Crystal Palace. The doctors, according to the Spanish boss, would first assess how the striker felt. He also revealed the nature of the ailment, stating, “I’m not concerned. It is not broken. Just worry.”

Guardiola also mentioned Erling’s prospective return, saying, “Hopefully Erling can travel to Saudi.” We’ll see if he plays the first or second game of the World Cup tomorrow, after the game.” This reflects the master tactician’s uncertainty over the 23-year-old’s participation in the event.

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