Guardiola Uncertain About Haaland’s Injury Absence

Manchester City remain hopeful that the injury which sidelined Erling Haaland at the weekend is not serious.

The Norwegian striker missed City’s 1-0 Premier League victory at Leeds on Saturday due to an unspecified issue sustained during training prior to the match.

Manager Pep Guardiola did not provide a clear timeframe for Haaland’s return, but the Press Association understands that the matter is not a major concern.

Haaland, who has scored 29 goals across all competitions this season, will be assessed on Monday and Tuesday ahead of Wednesday’s clash with Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium.

“I don’t have an answer right now,” Guardiola said after the game at Elland Road. “He was not ready for today, but we have four days before Nottingham Forest and then three days until the FA Cup tie at Newcastle at 8pm.”

He also made a pointed remark regarding the kick-off time for next Saturday’s fifth-round match at St James’ Park: “Thank you so much for that time, to go to Madrid with less recovery, thank you,” Guardiola quipped.

Nico O’Reilly, who was substituted after 70 minutes at Leeds due to an ankle injury, will also be evaluated.