Pep Guardiola has revealed Manchester City’s star striker Erling Haaland could miss five to seven weeks after sustaining a left ankle injury during Sunday’s 2-1 FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth. The Norwegian, who scored his 30th goal of the season in the match, collided with advertising boards late in the game, leading to his substitution in the 61st minute. He was later spotted wearing a protective boot and using crutches.
Guardiola confirmed the timeline during Tuesday’s press conference, stating Haaland’s recovery could extend until late May, potentially ruling him out of nine matches. This includes critical Premier League fixtures against Manchester United, Everton, and Wolves, as well as the FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest. His earliest possible return would be for City’s final league game at Fulham on May 19, with the Club World Cup in June also cited as a target.
The injury leaves City without their top scorer, forcing tactical adjustments. Guardiola acknowledged Haaland’s irreplaceable “specific qualities” but emphasized adapting strategies to suit available players. Forward Omar Marmoush, who replaced Haaland against Bournemouth and netted the decisive goal, is poised to play a larger role. The January signing from Eintracht Frankfurt has scored five times since joining, including a recent league goal against Brighton.
City’s depth will be tested during a congested schedule, but Guardiola remains confident in finding solutions. “We’ve played different ways before,” he said, highlighting the team’s flexibility. While Haaland’s absence is a blow, City’s pursuit of domestic and European silverware continues, with Marmoush and others tasked with filling the void.
