Manchester City Injury Update: Erling Haaland’s Return Announced, Manuel Akanji & John Stones Near Return vs Burnley

Manchester City fans have to be buzzing after Pep Guardiola’s press conference. The Spaniard addressed the media before the Burnley clash, providing an update on his team. Star striker Erling Haaland, who’s been out with an ankle injury for a while now, will make a return to the first team as the Cityzens host the Clarets at home.

Haaland has been out of action since December after hurting his ankle against Aston Villa. While fans expected the striker to return during the Club World Cup, Manchester City was in no mood to take chances with their prized possession. With Kevin De Bruyne back in the team, Haaland’s return will be a big boost for Guardiola’s men, who eye their fourth consecutive Premier League title.

Pep Guardiola provides a massive update on Erling Haaland

Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola addressed multiple topics concerning the first team in his press conference. The Spaniard commented on the first team’s status, providing updates on the likes of Erling Haaland and Manuel Akanji.

Guardiola stated, “For Burnley, he [Haaland] will be selected. For the first time, he’s back. The squad will be stronger, definitely. I mean, he is an important player for us. He’s two months out. It’s a long time, but we trained this afternoon. Tomorrow he will be with all of us.”

The Spaniard also commented the team will take a different approach when managing Erling Haaland and De Bruyne’s game time, as the two players suffered different extent of injuries. While on the topic of injuries, Guardiola also commented on Manuel Akanji and John Stones’ availability, stating the duo are fit back in training alongside the rest of the team.

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Manchester City look to hit the ground running against Burnley

Things have worked out well for the Cityzens in their past five games, with the side currently on an unbeaten streak. Pep Guardiola and his side have the chance to close the gap with Liverpool as the side host Vincent Kompany’s Burnley at the Etihad. Manchester City is currently five points behind Liverpool in the league standings. However, the side has a one-game advantage and could get the difference to two points come Wednesday.

Erling Haaland has the perfect chance to get back in the groove against Burnely. Vincent Kompany’s side has been one of the biggest disappointments of the season with the side bagging just three wins from their 21 games. The Clarets have had a hard time when up against the Norwegian and could once again fall victim to the star striker.

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