Erling Haaland injury latest as Guardiola explains Leeds absence and Forest hope | OneFootball

Erling Haaland was left out of Manchester City’s squad for the Saturday meeting with Leeds United, with Pep Guardiola describing a small training injury ahead of Wednesday’s home game against Nottingham Forest.

Guardiola said: "Two days ago in training he had some problems and a little injury. Not a big issue but not ready for today. We are without one top striker and we are playing with another top striker." He was speaking on Sky Sports before kick-off.

The manager indicated the problem is not viewed as serious and that sitting the striker out was precautionary during a decisive stage of the campaign.

There is strong optimism around his availability for Forest at the Etihad. ViaPlay’s Jan Aage Fjortoft reported Haaland will be ready as early as Wednesday.

The omission was his first from a Premier League matchday squad since May 2025. He had completed the full 90 minutes and supplied an assist in the 2-1 win over Newcastle United on 21 February, pointing to a late-week setback.

Without Haaland, City reworked their forward line, handing starts to Rayan Cherki and Omar Marmoush. Guardiola expressed confidence in the depth at his disposal.

Source: Nottingham Post