Man City provide Erling Haaland injury update ahead of Burnley clash | OneFootball

Haaland injury update offers hope ahead of Burnley clash

Manchester City have moved to ease concerns around Erling Haaland after Pep Guardiola offered a fitness update that initially created doubt over the striker’s availability this weekend.

Guardiola cautious on fitness concerns

The Norwegian forward has scored seven goals in six appearances this season, continuing a remarkable level of consistency. He missed the Carabao Cup third round win over Huddersfield, prompting speculation about his condition.

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Speaking before that tie, Guardiola admitted there was uncertainty. “[Haaland was in] recovery yesterday, he didn’t train,” Guardiola explained. “Today I didn’t see him or the rest of the players yet but hopefully he can be [back] for the next weekend.”

He added: “It’s been such a demanding week, the last game especially and sometimes the players have problems. But I think we will be fine next weekend, I hope so.”

Encouraging signs in training

City supporters were given reason for optimism when the club shared an image of Haaland in training on Thursday. That update points towards him being ready to feature against Burnley, a side he has tormented with five goals in just three meetings.

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Importance of his presence

With Omar Marmoush sidelined due to a knee injury suffered on international duty, the potential return of Haaland becomes even more significant. Guardiola requires his most reliable goalscorer in a run of fixtures that could shape momentum early in the campaign.

Record against upcoming opponents

Haaland’s dominance has extended to both domestic and international stages. He struck five goals for Norway in a World Cup qualifier against Moldova earlier this month, and his track record against Burnley suggests he could again play a decisive role.

For City, this injury update feels less like a scare and more like confirmation of his centrality to their ambitions this season.