Manchester City will be without their star striker, Erling Haaland, for up to seven weeks following an ankle injury sustained in their FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth.
Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed the news on Tuesday, dealing a significant blow to City’s campaign.
The Norwegian forward, who has been in scintillating form this season, suffered the injury shortly after scoring his 30th goal of the season in the 2-1 win on Sunday.
A challenge from Bournemouth midfielder Lewis Cook saw Haaland forced off, with medical assessments later determining the extent of the damage.
Despite the setback, City remain optimistic about Haaland’s return before the season concludes, with hopes that he will be fit in time for key fixtures, including the FIFA Club World Cup.
“The doctors have said between five and seven weeks, so hopefully he can be ready towards the end of the season,” Guardiola stated.
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The City boss acknowledged the challenge of replacing Haaland’s unique skill set but remained confident in the squad’s adaptability.
“We don’t have another player with his exact qualities, but we have played in different ways up front before. It depends on the players available, and we’ll find a solution,” he added.
Currently sitting fifth in the Premier League, City are locked in a battle for a Champions League spot.
They are set to host Leicester City on Wednesday before facing local rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday.
With Haaland sidelined, Guardiola will need to rely on his attacking options to keep City’s ambitions alive.