Erling Haaland was absent when Manchester City faced Leicester City. But calm down, the Citizens still have Kevin De Bruyne.
Haaland did not play at the King Power Stadium, Saturday (29/10/2022) night WIB, due to a foot injury in the middle of last week when he met Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League.
Haaland’s absence was a concern considering City were relying on him to score goals. Haaland has scored 22 goals in all competitions, three times more than Phil Foden, who has only scored seven goals.
It has been so Foden has also not been played from the start at Leicester’s home. Julian Alvarez was installed with the support of De Bruyne, Jack Grealish, and Bernardo Silva.
City had difficulties throughout the first half despite appearing dominant. After a goalless draw in the first half, City then broke the deadlock in the 49th minute.
Getting a free kick in front of the penalty box, De Bruyne released the ball into the left corner of Danny Ward’s goal. De Bruyne’s goal was the only one created in this match.
City won 1-0 and are top of the Premier League standings with 29 points, one point ahead of second-placed Arsenal. A relief result for Pep Guardiola because he was hit by worries after Haaland’s absence.
Guardiola is delighted City can prove to be tough without the Norwegian forward. De Bruyne himself has made four goals and 11 assists this season.
“We proved we can win with or without Erling Haaland,” said Guardiola BT sports.
“They changed strategy and the game was difficult, because they defended so deep with 10 men and it was very difficult.”
“After we scored, they changed the rhythm and the last minutes in the Premier League are always difficult. It’s a great win for us.”
“Kevin De Bruyne is back. He hasn’t been doing well in recent weeks, but today was incredible. He knows that.”
(mrp/bay)
