Manchester City’s star striker Erling Haaland’s availability for the upcoming match against Fulham is uncertain following his substitution during the Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. Haaland asked to be replaced after the end of 90 minutes and the start of extra time, along with Kevin De Bruyne and Manuel Akanji, who were also substituted. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Haaland and the other players requested to be taken off the pitch due to their inability to continue.
If we take Guardiola’s explanation at face value, it raises doubts about Haaland’s fitness for the upcoming game. Haaland has been a key player for Manchester City this season, missing only two matches due to a foot injury sustained between mid-December and mid-January. However, since his return, his performance has not been at the same level, with his goal tally largely boosted by his five-goal performance against Luton Town in the FA Cup.
Despite this, Haaland still leads the Premier League’s top scorers’ list, sharing the top spot with Chelsea’s Cole Palmer. In Haaland’s potential absence, Julian Alvarez is expected to lead the line for Manchester City against Fulham.
Guardiola’s decision regarding Haaland’s inclusion in the starting lineup will depend on the striker’s recovery and fitness.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
