Manchester City Head Coach Pep Guardiola has provided uplifting news over the fitness worries regarding Erling Haaland’s condition in preparation for their highly-anticipated match against Chelsea next weekend.
Haaland was replaced at the halfway mark during his team’s commanding 6-1 victory over Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on November 4.
Jeremy Doku’s spectacular display included four assists and a goal, propelling the defending champions to the summit of the Premier League table, surpassing Tottenham’s Monday night match. Additional goals were contributed by Bernardo Silva (2), Phil Foden, Manuel Akanji, and Nathan Ake.
Nonetheless, the victory had its drawbacks, as Haaland’s participation was limited to just 45 minutes before being substituted for Phil Foden. Guardiola, addressing concerns after the match, downplayed the severity of the injury, labeling it as an ‘ankle twist.
“It was a twist in the ankle; we didn’t want to take risks with him. He didn’t feel comfortable. Hopefully, it is not a big issue,” said the Spanish head coach.
Guardiola also verified that the Norwegian could potentially return for the Champions League match against Young Boys on Tuesday before heading to London to face Chelsea the following Sunday.
“He’ll be back maybe Tuesday, but maybe next Sunday.”
Manchester City will be eager to retain the 23-year-old, who was recently awarded the Gerd Muller trophy for his outstanding goal-scoring performance in European competitions last season. Currently, they are coping with the absence of Kevin De Bruyne due to a long-term injury.