Manchester City’s talisman striker Erling Haaland has been sidelined for a maximum of seven weeks after suffering an injury in the FA Cup quarter-final tie against Bournemouth. The Norwegian striker’s absence at this stage of the season has raised questions about City’s quest for a top-four finish and their Champions League campaign.
Haaland’s injury will see him miss important Premier League battles, such as a pivotal Manchester derby against United and make-or-break games against Arsenal and Liverpool. His absence may also greatly affect City’s goal-scoring capabilities, with boss Pep Guardiola now depending on Julian Alvarez and other forwards to compensate for the loss.
Haaland’s injury also comes at a bad time for City as they build towards the Champions League knockout stages. As the competition intensifies, Guardiola has a tactical decision to make in staying attacking efficient without compromising on defensive solidity.
City supporters will wish for a speedy recovery, but with seven weeks out, Haaland’s injury may be a determining element in defining the club’s European and domestic hopes this term.
