Haaland Set for Lengthy Spell on the Sidelines After Suffering Ankle Injury vs Bournemouth

Manchester City have been dealt a major blow, with Pep Guardiola confirming that Erling Haaland could be out for up to seven weeks after picking up an ankle injury during Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final win against Bournemouth.

The Norwegian striker, who had just netted his 30th goal of the season, left the Vitality Stadium on crutches and was later seen wearing a protective boot. Haaland will now consult a specialist to determine the full extent of the injury, but Guardiola revealed the early prognosis from City’s medical team isn’t promising. “The doctors told me between five and seven weeks. So hopefully the end of the season and the Club World Cup he will be ready,” Guardiola said.  

City later issued an official statement confirming the injury, stating, "Manchester City FC can confirm that Erling Haaland has suffered an injury to his left ankle. The Norwegian striker sustained the injury during Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final victory away at AFC Bournemouth. Erling underwent initial tests in Manchester on Monday morning and will now seek specialist consultation to confirm the full extent of the injury. Assessment remains ongoing to ascertain a full prognosis. The expectation is that Erling will be fit in time to play a further part in the remainder of this season, including this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup. Everyone at the Club wishes Erling a speedy recovery." 

The timing couldn’t be worse for City, who are still fighting for Champions League qualification. They have crucial Premier League fixtures ahead, including back-to-back games against Leicester and Manchester United this week, followed by matches against Crystal Palace and Everton. Then comes their FA Cup semi-final showdown with Nottingham Forest at Wembley on 26th April. Losing Haaland for the run-in is undoubtedly a setback, but with City now trailing Liverpool by a massive 22 points in the title race, it’s unlikely he’ll be rushed back for domestic action. Instead, Guardiola will look to new signing Omar Marmoush to step up in Haaland’s absence. The Egyptian forward, who arrived in January, now has a golden opportunity to lead the line and prove his worth. 

While City fans will be desperate to see their star striker back as soon as possible, it seems the club is prioritizing his long-term fitness. With the FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon this summer, the focus will be on ensuring Haaland is fully fit in time for the tournament. Until then, City must find a way to cope without their talisman as they navigate the crucial final stretch of the season.