Erling Haaland’s Injury Concerns Ahead of the New Season
Erling Haaland has raised concerns for Manchester City after being substituted at half-time in friendlies against both AC Milan and Barcelona. The prolific striker, who has been a key player in City’s pre-season tour, was taken off as a precaution due to minor muscular issues.
Haaland, who had started all three of City’s friendlies in the USA, found the net in the first two matches and had a goal disallowed against Barcelona despite replays showing it had crossed the line. While his substitution against AC Milan was planned, the decision to replace him at half-time against Barcelona was due to reported discomfort.
Pep Guardiola explained the situation: “He got some niggles. He didn’t feel good. He is disturbing something, doesn’t feel comfortable, we don’t want to take risks. Sooner or later he has to take a step. He has niggles, muscular, don’t want to take a risk and lose him for three weeks. That would be a problem. 60, 70 percent of the squad are on holiday.”
Despite Haaland’s concerns, Guardiola remains optimistic, highlighting the performance of other players. “At the same time, we have alternatives, Oscar [Bobb] makes an incredible job. We’re pleased with many things.”
Young Talents Shine
Guardiola also praised young midfielder Nico O’Reilly, who scored in his third start of the tour and showed great promise. “He was injured, he had a long injury last season,” said Guardiola. “He comes back, in the middle of last season he trains with us, and I said ‘Wow, this guy is big.’ Normally all the academy players are little Oscar Bobb’s. He is good in the header, so strong in the duels. In attacking midfield you will see him arrive in the positions – holding midfielder, attacking midfielder. From the academy, we are blessed to have these players.”
Guardiola emphasized the importance of competition within the squad, noting that the young players’ hunger and desire to prove themselves push the older players to maintain high standards. “They have to compete with the other guys, the young players push the older guys. They are hungry, starving. They want to be football players and show they are there.”
As City prepares for the new season, the team will hope Haaland’s issues are resolved quickly, ensuring he is fit and ready for their competitive fixtures. Meanwhile, the emergence of talented academy players like Nico O’Reilly provides additional optimism for the club’s future.
