Striker Erling Haaland was absent unexpectedly during Manchester City’s 2-1 away win against Luton Town on December 10, raising speculation that the star had a broken bone in his foot, requiring coach Pep Guardiola to clarify.
Coach Pep Guardiola stated vaguely before the game: “Haaland is not ready yet, and will most likely be absent from the match against Crystal Palace (10 p.m. on December 16).” But I’m hoping he’ll be able to play in the game.” Saudi Arabia (FIFA Club World Cup, which begins on December 20). Haaland’s feelings will be determined by time.”
Man City struggled without Haaland, behind Luton Town 1-0 (Adebayo’s goal) before rallying to win 2-1 on goals from Bernardo Silva and Grealish in the 62nd and 65th minutes.
This is Man City’s first Premier League victory following four consecutive ties and losses. Man City is still in fourth place with 33 points, three points ahead of fifth-place Tottenham (the team won 4-1 against Newcastle after losing four and drawing one of their previous five matches). Man City’s championship chances remain intact, as they are only two points behind the teams placed above them, including Aston Villa, three points ahead of Arsenal, and four points ahead of top team Liverpool.
However, the prospect of losing top scorer Haaland for an extended period of time might have a significant impact on Man City’s title hopes. Coach Pep Guardiola also stated that forward Julian Alvarez will lead Man City’s attack in Haaland’s absence, despite the fact that the Argentine striker has not scored a goal since October.
“It’s simply bone stress.” I want to emphasize. It’s simply stress. Please do not inquire as to whether or not his leg is fractured. “It’s just a bone injury, and he can’t play,” Pep Guardiola added. Haaland’s injury was addressed during Man City’s victory over Luton Town.
“After the 1-0 loss to Aston Villa in midweek, Haaland could barely walk normally.” However, he is feeling better in the coming days. It’s only that the doctors wanted Haaland to recuperate from his injury as quickly as possible, so he couldn’t play against Luton Town or Crystal Palace. “We’ll have to wait and see,” Pep Guardiola said.
Man City plays Red Star Belgrade in the final round of the Champions League group stage in the middle of this week. But this is simply a pre-round match for Man City, who has a ticket to the round of 16 and leads the group. Coach Pep Guardiola is likely to play only the reserve team and young players in order to retain soldiers available for critical forthcoming battles.