Man City vs Liverpool: Klopp reacts to possible Haaland absence

The Man City star is yet to return to team training since picking up an injury before the international break.

Jurgen Klopp insists Erling Haaland’s potential absence won’t make Manchester City weaker against Liverpool.

The Citizens will take on Liverpool in their first game after the international break. Sitting eight points behind Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table, City hope to stay in the race by beating Klopp’s men.

However, City might have to play without their key striker at Etihad. Haaland withdrew from international duty after picking up a knock in City’s victory over Burnley in the FA Cup.

“If he [Erling Haaland] cannot play, and [Julian] Alvarez plays, that makes ManCity different but not weaker,” Klopp said in his pre-match press conference.

“Alvarez is obviously a proper striker, but they became Premier League Champions without a striker, so they have different ways.”

Haaland didn’t take part in City’s team training on Thursday. The Norway international’s absence will most likely convince Pep Guardiola to start Julian Alvarez in his side’s attacking line.

Alvarez has managed to find his place in City’s squad despite competition from Haaland this season. The World Cup winner has started only six games for Guardiola’s side this season.

However, his record of 12 goals across all competitions convinced the Citizens to award him an improved and extended deal earlier this month.