Boss Pep Guardiola has confirmed he has a full squad to choose from against the Clarets, with Erling Haaland, John Stones, and Manuel Akanji all in contention to feature against Vincent Kompany’s side.
Haaland has been absent since the first week of December, while Stones and Akanji have shaken off muscular issues.
Following the recent return of Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku, the City boss admits he couldn’t have wished for better news.
“The most important news is almost all the squad are fit,” said Guardiola at his Tuesday press conference.
“We don’t have injuries - Manu is back, training well he doesn’t feel his knee. John as well. That is the best news. The important part of season starts now. FA Cup, the Champions League is around the corner and of course the Premier League – it’s important that we have everyone available.”
Asked specifically about Haaland, the boss added: “Apparently he will be selected. [This is] the first time he is back.
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“We have all the squad, we are stronger. Definitely.
“Erling is an important player for us. Two months out, but he feels good - we have a training session [today], but apparently tomorrow he will be with us.”
Asked if Haaland’s return would be managed the same way Kevin De Bruyne’s gradual return has, Guardiola said: “Kevin’s was muscular with surgery, so it was a completely different approach.
“Erling’s was a stress on the bone, so a different approach. Step by step.”
