Manchester City suffered a major setback on Monday. Star striker Erling Haaland will miss crucial games after sustaining an ankle injury during their 2-1 FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth.
The Norwegian forward, who has netted 30 goals this season, picked up the injury following a challenge from Bournemouth’s Lewis Cook shortly after scoring City’s equaliser. The club has not provided a definitive timeline for his return, but remains hopeful he will play again this season.
“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,” said a club statement.
“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.”
With City currently sitting fifth in the Premier League and fighting for a Champions League spot, Haaland’s absence comes at a critical time. They are set to face Leicester and Manchester United this week, followed by matches against Crystal Palace and Everton before an FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest on April 26.
Despite the uncertainty over his recovery, City reassured fans that they expect Haaland to return before the season ends and be available for this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup.
