Manchester City led a big blow during the weekend after Erling Haaland forced off due to injury at a decisive point during the season. With 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in the horizon, Head coach Pep Guardiola has provided an optimistic timeline for the return of the Norwegian star.
During Sunday’s FA Cup collision against Bournemouth, citizens secured a 2-1 victory to book their place in the semi-finals. However, The win came at a cost, when midfielder Lewis Cook landed on Haaland’s left ankle in the 61st minuteforce the striker to leave the plan.
Guardiola spoke at Tuesday’s press conference and dealt with the growing list of damage in the squad: “Sometimes there are years when this type of thing happens. I would say it could have been different if it was the end of the season. So, With all the injuries we’ve had this season I am so sorry for them and for Erling too.“
The city manager then revealed the timeline given by the club’s medical staff: “I wish him a good recovery, as quickly as possible and then came back. The doctors told me between five and seven weeks. So hopefully, for the end of the season and the FIFA Club World Cup, he will be ready. “
Haaland is expected to miss a series of crucial fixtures, including matches against Leicester CityThe Manchester UnitedThe Crystal PalaceThe Evertonand a potentially important collide toward Nottingham Forest-One of the city’s direct rivals for a UEFA Champions League site.
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The timing of the injury is unfortunate, but Guardiola remains hopeful. If everything goes in plan, Haaland should return in time for the migration and the prestigious World Cup clubSit on starting in mid -June.
Guardiola faces the challenge of replacing Haaland
“We find a solution for the players we have and different skills and qualities. We do not have another player with his skills or specific qualities, we know that. But we have to adapt“Said Guardiola as he asked how he plans to handle without his top score.
Replacing Haaland is no easy task. With Julian Alvarez sold last summer, City lacks a real backup striker. The only natural replacement in the squad is Omar MarmoushA forward with a completely different profile than Norwegian.
Another possible option is to return to a system used before, Where Guardiola put in Kevin de Bruyne as a fake nine. However, Belgium’s current fitness and form raise questions if he can consistently fulfill that role.
“For many years we have played in different ways and it depends on the players’ characteristics. We’ll try to find another solution“Raised Guardiola. Despite Guardiola’s optimism and replaced a player who has scored 30 goals in 40 matches This season will be one of his toughest tactical challenges yet.
