Pep Guardiola has already shown how Man City can beat Liverpool FC without Erling Haaland
Manchester City are seven days into the international break, and have seen six players added to the injury list.
They could be without nine players when they take on Liverpool next weekend, leaving just 12 fit outfield players as it stands. Ederson also withdrew from international duty, meaning the squad that takes on Liverpool could include as few as 14 senior players.
Some of those injuries or withdrawals may have recovered by next Saturday, while Erling Haaland's injury was described curiously as 'not career threatening' by his national team manager. If Haaland isn't available, though, it wouldn't be the first time City face Liverpool without their star striker.
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Last season, Haaland missed City's home clash with Liverpool due to a groin injury, potentially serving as a big blow to City's title hopes in April when they couldn't afford many slip-ups in pursuit of Arsenal.
In his place, Julian Alvarez led the line, with Pep Guardiola deploying his 'box' midfield behind the Argentine of Kevin De Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan as number eights, and Rodri in holding midfield as well as John Stones pushing next to him in support. Jack Grealish and Riyad Mahrez were wide midfielders, with a back three of Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake and Manu Akanji when Stones wasn't roaming forward.
It was a system that would win City the treble - and also see them come from behind to beat Liverpool 4-1 on the day. Just like against Young Boys recently, City can play without Haaland and still look comfortable.
If Haaland is out this weekend, the issue will be who can play in that midfield system
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