Manchester City Injury Update: Pep Guardiola Substitutes Manuel Akanji vs Huddersfield As Erling Haaland Nears Return

The FA Cup Round 3 is in full swing and it appears that injury concerns have resurfaced for Pep Guardiola. In their match against Huddersfield Town, Manchester City faced a setback within the first 20 minutes when Manuel Akanji sustained an injury and had to be substituted.

Unfortunately, Manchester City has been plagued by a lengthy list of injuries, including key players like Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku, who have made their comeback as substitutes in the FA Cup match. There have been reports of Erling Haaland nearing recovery as well, but now a new cause for concern has emerged.

A new injury concern has arisen for Pep Guardiola

During the 13th minute of the match, Alex Matos from Huddersfield executed a sliding tackle on Manuel Akanji. As a result, the Swiss defender went down clutching his legs, leading the referee to issue a yellow card to Matos. The game came to a halt as the 28-year-old needed medical attention.

Unfortunately, he was unable to continue playing, and Pep Guardiola had no choice but to substitute him with Matheus Nunes. At this time, the full details of the injury have not yet been disclosed. For the time being, we will have to await further confirmation regarding the severity of the injury.

This injury scare is no doubt a frustrating blow for the Spanish manager, who has been eagerly awaiting the return of his full main squad in optimal health. Kevin De Bruyne has finally rejoined the team after a lengthy 5-month absence due to a hamstring injury. Additionally, there are promising hints from Pep Guardiola regarding Erling Haaland.

Manchester City boss’ latest update on Erling Haaland

Erling Haaland has been absent for over a month due to an ankle injury. But fortunately, he is now back in training. Pep Guardiola has provided an update on his condition, explaining, “Erling is a little bit better, it’s bone, so we have to be careful. He’s done 2-3 sessions and feels good after.”

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Despite not being chosen for the match against Huddersfield, it is anticipated that Haaland will make his return on January 13, when Manchester City takes on Newcastle United in the Premier League. If not, then Pep Guardiola is sure the Norwegian striker will be ready for the rest.

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