Manchester City’s talisman Erling Haaland will be out for six or seven weeks following an injury in the FA Cup quarter-final with Bournemouth, Pep Guardiola confirmed.
What Happened?
The 24-year-old Norwegian was forced off the pitch after seeming to struggle with pain during City’s FA Cup victory. Early reports indicate that his injury may keep him out for much of the season.
How This Affects Man City
With vital Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup matches in front of them, Haaland’s absence may be a huge setback for Guardiola’s team. Manchester City is still fighting on several fronts:
Premier League Title Race: City is behind league leaders Arsenal and Liverpool.
Champions League Quarter-Finals: City has a stiff European fight.
FA Cup Semis: Another trophy pursuit in jeopardy.
Who Will Step Up in Haaland’s Absence?
With Haaland missing, Guardiola might trust:
Julian Alvarez: Might receive a bigger role in the strike force.
Phil Foden: Might assume more goal-scoring responsibility.
Kevin De Bruyne: Likely to play a pivotal playmaking part.
When Will Haaland Return?
The seven-week timeline would see Haaland potentially return in late May, missing most of the Premier League run-in and much of the Champions League campaign.
With City pursuing silverware on several fronts, Guardiola’s team will need to change quickly or lose out on their ambitious trophy pursuit.
