Erling Haaland is fit to lead the line for Manchester City in their Premier League showdown against Aston Villa at Villa Park this Saturday. The prolific forward had triggered fitness worries after being seen hobbling following a knock suffered against Ipswich, leading to him being rested during City's 5-1 midweek win over AEK Athens.
Manager Enzo Maresca has officially cleared up any uncertainty regarding the Norwegian's readiness for the 12:30pm clash. Discussing the status of his injured players in his pre-match press conference, Maresca confirmed: "Erling is the only one 100 per cent available." Meanwhile, hosts Aston Villa have their own personnel questions, with Johan Manzambi considered a doubt after sitting out their Champions League victory during the week.
Haaland has enjoyed an exceptional start to the campaign, delivering eight goals in seven Premier League matches, which included a brace at the Etihad in his last domestic fixture. His attacking output has propelled City to seven consecutive victories from their opening seven games, keeping them unbeaten at the top of the table amid ongoing controversy regarding the club's 115 charges and guilty verdict.
Saturday's trip to the Midlands will test City's flawless record against an Aston Villa side in strong form under Unai Emery. Following a sluggish start to the year, Emery's team has rebounded impressively by winning five of their previous six fixtures across all competitions, setting up an intriguing battle as City look to protect their unblemished run at the summit.