The Norwegian striker came off at half time in the win against Aston Villa and Guardiola is unsure if he could face Arsenal
Despite Manchester City’s emphatic win against Aston Villa, the slight injury to Erling Haaland could dampen the Citizen’s mood ahead of their significant clash with Arsenal.
Erling Haaland potentially misses the Arsenal match
Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday came at a cost. The Citizens might have closed the gap with Arsenal to two points but they have seemingly lost their talisman striker.
Erling Haaland had a clash with Emiliano Martinez in the first half and had to be taken off at half time. Despite Guardiola claiming the substitution to be just a precautionary once, he is unsure about the 22-year-old’s fitness.
“If he is not ready, we play another one. Hopefully he’s ready but we will see.”
“Haaland had a big knock, he was uncomfortable. At 3-0 we don’t want to take risks. We’ll see and assess in the next days.” Guardiola told the Sky Sports.
Pressed further on whether Haaland will be ready for a trip to Emirates Stadium, Guardiola added: “If he is not ready, we play another one. Hopefully he’s ready but we will see.”
Wednesday’s match against Arsenal could in fact be the title decider. If City manage a win at enemy ground they could move to the top of the table for the first time in quite a while.
As for Haaland himself, the Norwegian goal machine was much livelier than he was in the defeat against Tottenham. Having him fit against Arsenal would be a great boost to Citizens’ chance of victory.
