Manchester City’s star striker, Erling Haaland, is set to be sidelined until the end of January due to a foot injury, as confirmed by manager Pep Guardiola.
The Norwegian forward, who shares the top scorer position in the Premier League with Mohamed Salah, is expected to return to training during the team’s camp in Abu Dhabi next week.
Guardiola expressed the nature of Haaland’s injury, stating, “It’s the bone. It needs time.”
The 23-year-old, who has missed City’s last eight games across all competitions, is anticipated to be back in action by the end of the month.
Guardiola emphasized the importance of Haaland’s return, stating, “We need him. Hopefully, he can come back and play the last four or five months without a problem.”
In addition to Haaland, Swiss defender Manuel Akanji will also be out of action until the end of the month. However, there is positive news regarding the return of Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.
Guardiola confirmed that De Bruyne, who suffered a hamstring injury earlier in the season, is set to return to the starting lineup.
The manager expressed optimism about De Bruyne’s progress, saying, “He is getting better now, he will have a few days off after this game and can train in Abu Dhabi to be better for the next few months.”
As Manchester City faces Newcastle United in the Premier League and prepares for upcoming fixtures in the FA Cup and league, Guardiola remains confident about the team’s performance.
Despite being five points behind leaders Liverpool, with a game in hand, Guardiola believes it is mathematically possible for City to secure a fourth consecutive league title.
Newcastle, currently ninth in the league, enters the game after three consecutive defeats in the league.
