Photo via BBC Sport

Haaland a doubt, Semenyo out - what are Man City's options?

Manchester City’s title charge faces a critical test after Erling Haaland’s availability for the upcoming match remains uncertain, with the Norwegian striker still being assessed following Sunday’s training session. Haaland has been unstoppable in front of goal this season, scoring in six consecutive Premier League games and hitting a historic milestone of 100 non-penalty goals in fewer appearances than any other player in the competition’s history.

With his usual backup options limited—Julian Alvarez and Omar Marmoush have struggled to replicate his impact—City’s summer loan signing of Divin Mubama to Southampton has left them without a natural replacement in Haaland’s absence.

The absence of Phil Foden’s strike partner, Athanasia Semenyo, further complicates matters, as the Ghanaian forward is expected to miss up to 13 matches. While manager Pep Guardiola has previously considered deploying Semenyo as a false nine, her injury now forces City to explore alternative solutions.

Midfielder Phil Foden, who broke his goal drought with a Premier League strike against Ipswich, could step into the role once again, despite Haaland remaining the first-choice option. Iliman Ndiaye, City’s summer signing from Sheffield United, also emerges as a potential candidate, having scored 14 goals in a promotion-winning campaign last season.

Additionally, Rayan Cherki has shown adaptability in a similar role, scoring in a recent Carabao Cup win when deployed as a false nine.

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