Manchester City are set to face Chelsea as they meet in Ohio, providing us a preview of their upcoming clash on the opening weekend of the 2024/25 Premier League season.
Pep Guardiola and City are yet to pick up a win on their preseason tour in the United States and have suffered injuries to the squad, most notably prolific goalscorer Erling Haaland.
Haaland was substituted at half-time in games against AC Milan and Barcelona, however, Guardiola mentioned that the first substitution was planned, but the second was due to an injury concern.
All the latest EPL club news | Team-by-team Premier League schedule for 2024/25 | Latest Premier League top scorer rankings
Erling Haaland latest injury update
The star striker is doubtful for tonight's game against Chelsea due to some minor muscle issues, which could potentially sideline him.
Guardiola was asked about his status following the match against Barcelona: "Erling isn't comfortable. He has some muscle niggles, and we don't want to risk him being out for three weeks or a month. That would be a problem.
"He didn't feel right, which is why he didn't play the second half," he added.
Guardiola's latest update on Haaland's condition was a positive one, stating: "He is much better. He told me today that he woke up feeling much better, and hopefully, he can play a few minutes tomorrow."
New York state of mind 🧠 pic.twitter.com/e1IlUO8Vb9
— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) July 25, 2024
Several key City players are still absent, having been on international duty during the Euros and Copa America this summer.
City's clash with Chelsea will be their final opportunity to prepare ahead of their match against arch-rivals Manchester United in the Community Shield next weekend.
