Manchester City have been dealt a major blow with star striker Erling Haaland ruled out for up to seven weeks after suffering an ankle injury during Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final win over Bournemouth.
The 23-year-old Norwegian was spotted leaving the Vitality Stadium on crutches and in a protective boot following the 2-1 victory. Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed the extent of the injury at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, revealing the club’s medical staff estimate a five-to-seven week recovery timeline.
“Erling will be out for some time,” Guardiola stated. “The doctors say between five and seven weeks. It’s a significant injury at an important moment of the season, but we have to manage without him.”
The injury potentially rules Haaland out for the remainder of City’s Premier League title defense and their Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid. However, the club remains hopeful he could return for the latter stages of European competition should they progress, and for June’s Club World Cup in the United States.
Haaland, who has scored 28 goals in all competitions this season, will consult with a specialist later this week to determine the exact severity of the injury. His absence leaves Guardiola with Julian Alvarez as the only recognized senior striker, though the Catalan coach hinted at possible tactical adjustments.
“We have players who can play in different positions,” Guardiola added. “Julian has been fantastic for us, Phil [Foden] can play more advanced, and we have other options. This is why we have a strong squad.”
The injury comes at a critical juncture as City chase an unprecedented second consecutive treble, currently sitting one point behind Arsenal in the Premier League and facing crucial fixtures across three competitions. Medical staff will monitor Haaland’s progress closely, with his rehabilitation expected to begin immediately after specialist consultation.
Fans and pundits alike will be watching anxiously to see how City cope without their talismanic striker during the season’s decisive phase. The club has not ruled out the possibility of a quicker return should Haaland’s recovery progress better than expected.
