Haaland injury latest and expected return date as Liverpool hopes to extend Man City lead

As the football world watches with bated breath, Erling Haaland, the striking sensation of Manchester City, is potentially sidelined for their forthcoming Premier League clash due to a foot ailment. The Norwegian international was conspicuously absent during City's 2-1 triumph over Luton Town, a victory that narrowed the gap between them and Liverpool to four points.

Pep Guardiola, Manchester City's manager, confirmed that Haaland has incurred a stress injury to his bone, leaving him unable to walk properly. Despite this setback, Guardiola remains optimistic about Haaland's return in time for next weekend's clash against Crystal Palace. If not, the Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia later this month is eyed as the possible stage for his comeback.

Should this prognosis hold true, Haaland would be unavailable for City's upcoming games against Red Star Belgrade and Crystal Palace. This absence could be a significant blow for Manchester City as it strives to catch up with Liverpool in the Premier League title race. With a packed schedule until the end of 2023, any downtime without their star player could be detrimental.

Haaland's potential absence could affect two key Manchester City games one in the Champions League and another in the Premier League against Red Star Belgrade and Crystal Palace respectively. After these matches, City will travel to Saudi Arabia for the Club World Cup where they are slated to play a semi-final match on December 19. If victorious, they will vie for the championship on December 22. Their subsequent Premier League game is scheduled to be at Goodison Park five days later.

City with team problems

Adding to City's woes, Guardiola confirmed that winger Jérémy Doku could also be sidelined for up to two weeks due to a muscle injury. The Belgian international has been absent since last weekend's 3-3 draw against Tottenham. Kevin De Bruyne, another of City's key players, continues to be a long-term absentee following a recurring hamstring injury suffered at the start of the Premier League season. However, Guardiola did confirm that De Bruyne has begun running on grass this week, signaling progress towards his recovery.