Man City manager Guardiola worried about Haaland’s fitness after complaining of muscle injury
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Man City manager Guardiola worried about Haaland || Imago

Man City manager Guardiola worried about Haaland’s fitness after complaining of muscle injury

Stephen Oladehinde 12:41 - 31.07.2024

Pep Guardiola has revealed that he is worried about star player Erling Haaland after he complained about a minor muscle injury.

Haaland was in action for Manchester City during their preseason game against Barcelona which ended in a 2-2 draw.

The Norwegian scored in the game but was ruled out after the referee insisted that the ball did not cross the line.

The Premier League top scored was later substituted at half-time after he felt a minor muscle strain during the game.

Guardiola on Haaland 

In their past two friendlies against AC Milan and Barcelona, Haaland was replaced at halftime, but other players were allowed lengthier playing times.

Erling Haaland's playing time is being monitored by Pep Guardiola while Manchester City is concerned about the striker's fitness ahead of the new season.

Erling Haaland in action for Man City || Imago
Erling Haaland in action for Man City || Imago

According to Daily Mail, Guardiola said, “Erling is not comfortable. We don't want to take risks. But sooner or later he has to take a step with training and minutes.

“The season is there, around the corner. He has niggles, muscular, we don't want to take a risk and lose him for three weeks or a month. That would be a problem.

“He didn't feel good and that's why he didn't play the second half, Sixty-seventy per cent of the squad are on holiday. That's why we need the players. 

Man City manager Pep Guardiola || Imago
Man City manager Pep Guardiola || Imago

“At the same time, we have alternatives, Oscar did an incredible job again. We're pleased with many things.”

Haaland’s presence will be needed as City play Manchester United in the Community Shield before opening their Premier League defence against Chelsea.

Meanwhile, Guardiola has praised Hansi Flick's Barcelona after their 2-2 draw against Man City in their pre-season friendly.

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