Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is hopeful that star striker Erling Haaland will be fit for the crucial Champions League second-leg tie against Real Madrid on Wednesday.
The Norwegian forward suffered a late injury scare in City’s dominant 4-0 victory over Newcastle, leaving Guardiola momentarily concerned.
Haaland’s Injury Scare at the Etihad
Haaland, who captained City for the first time in a Premier League match, appeared to jar his right knee unchallenged in the closing stages of the game.
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The 25-year-old went down clutching his knee, causing concern among teammates and fans. However, after receiving treatment, he was able to walk off the pitch and watch the remainder of the match from the substitutes’ bench.
Guardiola admitted he was initially “scared” but later eased fears over the extent of the injury.
“When he went down, everyone was scared,” Guardiola said.
“But he walked off smiling, and the doctor didn’t tell me any bad news, so hopefully, he is fine. I have not spoken to the doctor, but maybe it’s not as bad as it could be.”
Crucial Clash Against Real Madrid
City will need to overturn a 3-2 first-leg deficit against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu to progress to the Champions League quarter-finals.
Haaland, who netted both of City’s goals in the first-leg defeat at the Etihad, will be a key figure in their comeback hopes.
Haaland’s First Premier League Captaincy
With Kevin De Bruyne starting on the bench and former captain Kyle Walker departing for AC Milan in January, Guardiola handed Haaland the captain’s armband against Newcastle.
The decision came after the striker committed his long-term future to the club with a ten-year contract.
“When Kyle left, Kevin became the first [captain], then I nominated Erling,” Guardiola explained.
“He will be here for 10 years, so sooner or later, he has to take that responsibility. It’s nice for the first time in the Premier League it’s just the beginning, but it’s a gesture.”
City fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on Haaland’s fitness, with his presence likely to be crucial in their Champions League aspirations.
