After Kevin De Bryne made a sensational return from injury in a thrilling 3-2 win over Newcastle United on January 13, Manchester City fans are keen to know the status of their star striker Erling Haaland. The Norwegian, who has been out of action since December 6, was expected to make a comeback against the Magpies but didn’t feature in the squad. A new update on his injury status reveals that he was close to returning before a setback.

According to Daily Mail journalist Jack Gaughan, “The medical team took the view that he needed a week off after a setback. Haaland is expected to be reintegrated into the squad in Abu Dhabi. They’re a little bit concerned by the specific area of bone that suffered the stress.” He asserted that the club did not want to take the risk of ‘rushing him back‘, keeping his Dortmund injury record in mind.

Soccer Football – Premier League – Manchester City v Liverpool – Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain – November 25, 2023 Manchester City’s Erling Braut Haaland during the warm up before the match REUTERS/Carl Recine NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR ‘LIVE’ SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 45 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS.

Gaughan also mentioned, “They’re a little bit concerned by the specific area of bone that suffered the stress – and it has been a longer lay-off than initially anticipated. The journalist also expressed hope of seeing him in action soon and provided an update for Fantasy Football managers as he added, “He was close to returning before the setback so it won’t be long before Fantasy Football managers can make their changes.”

Earlier Pep Guardiola had said that Haaland will likely be out of action until the end of January and it turns out that may well be the case now. City are currently in the middle of their 13-day break are in Abu Dhabi for their warm weather training. On their return they will face Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup 4th round on January 27, followed by a Premier League game on February 1 against Burnley, where they will hope to have Haaland fit and running.

The striker’s impact is compounded by the fact that he is still the highest scorer in the league with 14 goals, despite a lengthy absence. Although De Bryne has returned to the fold and Haaland may be on his way back soon, City are ravaged by injuries with their goalkeeper Ederson, the latest to join the sidelines.

Manchester City dealing with an injury crisis as they look to make history

Manchester City are looking to become the first team to win four consecutive Premier League titles. But their season has been hit with injuries to key players from time to time. De Bryne suffered an injury at the start of the season in August and only returned last week against Newcastle United. The game saw the Belgian inspire City to victory with a goal and an assist but also witnessed City’s goalkeeper Ederson forced off due to an issue with his leg.

Jack Grealish is another player who was not 100% in the build-up to the trip to St. James’ Park and remained on the bench. Defender John Stones remains on the sidelines following an ankle injury against Everton in December with a return date unknown. Another defender Manuel Akanji, limped off during an FA Cup win against Huddersfield and may not feature this month.

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As such Manchester City are battling a lot of injuries as they look to defend their PL title and make history in the process. Pep Guardiola will be hoping for a swift return of his key players as the season gears for an intense final lap.

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Undoubtedly, the fans will keep an eye on the photos from the training sessions and hope to see their top stars return to full fitness.

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