Erling Haaland’s Return to Manchester City Delayed Until Next Month, Says Pep Guardiola
Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has revealed that Erling Haaland may not be back on the field until next month. The star player has suffered a setback in his recovery from a foot injury, which has kept him sidelined since mid-December. Haaland has missed City’s last eight matches, including their Club World Cup triumph.
Although there was hope that Haaland would feature in the upcoming game against Newcastle, Guardiola ruled out that possibility in his pre-match press conference. However, he did mention that Kevin De Bruyne could start.
Guardiola further disclosed that Haaland could miss three more games, with a potential return at the end of this month. The manager explained that the injury was more severe than expected, as it involves a bone that requires time to heal. Guardiola expressed how much the team has missed Haaland’s presence on the field.
In addition to Haaland, John Stones has also been ruled out for the match against Newcastle. However, there is a possibility that Jack Grealish may return after recovering from illness.
Manchester City’s remaining games in January include a trip to Newcastle, an FA Cup fourth-round clash against Tottenham, and a Premier League game against Burnley.
Currently, City is third in the table, trailing five points behind leaders Liverpool. However, they have a game in hand over their rivals. Haaland’s injury has also cost him his lead in the Golden Boot race, with Mohamed Salah now level with him on 14 goals.
For more sports news, visit our sport page. Stay updated with Metro Sport on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
More: Vincent Kompany furious with VAR after Burnley concede controversial late equaliser against Luton. RB Leipzig chief criticises Liverpool starlet Fabio Carvalho after failed loan spell.