Manchester City’s star striker Erling Haaland could miss the remainder of the season after suffering an ankle injury during the club’s 2-1 victory over Bournemouth in the FA Cup semi-final last Saturday.
The Norwegian forward, who has been in outstanding form this season, was seen leaving the Vitality Stadium on crutches and in a protective boot, sparking concerns among City fans and staff alike.
After undergoing scans on Monday, Haaland was referred to a specialist, who confirmed the injury would sideline the 24-year-old for five to seven weeks. Manager Pep Guardiola expressed his disappointment, stating, “The doctors told me it will be between five and seven weeks, so hopefully, he will be ready by the end of the season and for the [Club] World Cup.”
This setback marks another challenging moment for Guardiola, who has faced several difficulties throughout the season. Guardiola admitted, “Sometimes there are years when these kinds of things happen. It couldn’t be different at the end of the season. I’m sorry for the players, especially for Erling, and I hope he recovers quickly.”
Haaland, who signed a lucrative nine-and-a-half-year contract with the club in January, has been in sensational form, scoring 30 goals in 40 appearances this campaign. His absence will be a major blow for Manchester City as they continue their pursuit of silverware this season.
City will next face Leicester City at the Etihad Stadium tomorrow, where they will have to cope without their star striker.