How Man City may lineup against Arsenal without Haaland as the top two prepare for a crucial title match

The 22-year-old striker was taken off at halftime after suffering a thigh injury during City's weekend 3-1 victory over Aston Villa.
Although the extent of his ailment is not yet known, he is anticipated to undergo several tests prior to this week's crucial match.

Pep Guardiola, the manager of Man City, said on Sunday to Sky Sports: "Erling has a kick and we will see.

"In the next days, we'll evaluate him to determine the severity of the injury.

"At halftime, I checked in with the physicians to see what they thought, and they said that perhaps at 3-0, we shouldn't take a chance. I agreed with the doctors.

"Perhaps I wouldn't do it if the margin of victory was closer. He may not be hurt, but we won't know for sure until tomorrow.

He could be able to perform there on Wednesday. He won't play if he's not ready or if there is a risk.

Guardiola might be forced to make some alterations to his lineup because Haaland is questionable for the upcoming match against Arsenal.

The World Cup champion Julian Alvarez, who has nine goals this season in all competitions, will probably take the position of the Norwegian in attack.
Both Riyad Mahrez and Jack Grealish performed well against Aston Villa on Sunday, earning them the right to keep their spots in the starting lineup as the support players on each wing.

Kevin De Bruyne will probably continue to play with Rodri and Ilkay Gundogan in midfield since he was named to the bench for City's 1-0 loss to Tottenham at the weekend.

Following his superb performance against the Gunners, Nathan Ake, who scored the game-winning goal in Man City's FA Cup victory over Arsenal last month, may be given the opportunity to reclaim his position.

Aymeric Laporte might move inside to accompany Ruben Dias in the middle of the defense if Ake decides to move to the left.

Since Kyle Walker is most likely to match the pace of Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard at right back, it is expected that he will keep that position.

Rico Lewis, who excelled for City the last time they faced Arsenal, might replace the England star, though.

Despite the significance of the game on Wednesday, Guardiola could benefit from the chance to try out a new lineup.
The City manager may decide to play De Bruyne as a false nine with Haaland out.

When Man City had few choices up front towards the close of the previous season, the Belgian international briefly filled this offensive position.
And Guardiola has frequently used him in the past when his team has needed goals.

If De Bruyne does move into this position, Bernardo Silva, a Portuguese playmaker, might be reintroduced into the middle.