“No Pain” – Pep Guardiola Provides Update on Erling Haaland’s Injury Before Manchester City vs. Burnley

There is a lot of buzz among the Manchester City faithful. Understandable since star striker Erling Haaland is almost back from his injury layoff. Pep Guardiola had previously revealed that the Norwegian would feature in the upcoming match against relegation-threatened Burnley. Moreover, the striker had even participated in the recent training sessions. However, as per the new update from the Man City boss, the extent of Haaland’s participation is suddenly uncertain, with one crucial factor being cited as the roadblock. What could have happened behind the scenes?

Erling Haaland’s last game was against Aston Villa on December 6. He suffered a foot injury, which was a bone stress reaction as per Guardiola, when he explained the details. The goalscorer’s return will be a huge boost to Man City, who trails Liverpool in the title race.

Guardiola reveals the Haaland update that fans didn’t want to hear, despite the striker ‘feeling better’!

The Manchester City boss has confirmed that the Norwegian ace is fit again. He said, “He feels better. Six trainings in a row and feels good – that’s the best news. No pain, which is good.” However, Pep has his concerns regarding the striker’s rhythm. He explained, “But it’s been two months out – the rhythm – but maybe he’s good from the beginning to start, or maybe from the last minutes, we will see.” It is also perfectly possible that Pep Guardiola is keeping his cards close to his chest to surprise the Vincent Kompany-led Burnley.

Interestingly, the Cityzens haven’t lost a single game since Erling Haaland’s injury. The reason is the impressive form of Argentine striker, Julian Alvarez. With Haaland’s impending return, the Spanish tactician will have a job on his hands of fitting the two attackers into the starting line-up. The return of Haaland also brings up the exciting prospect of watching the Haaland-Kevin De Bruyne connection.

The duo were among the most prolific partnerships in the EPL last season with the Belgian creating an astonishing 26 chances for Erling Haaland! Both of them have missed large chunks of the season this time around, but Guardiola is not willing to use that as an excuse for their inconsistent campaign so far.

‘Cannot cry for 5 months’, Guardiola refuses to hide behind excuses in Erling Haaland & KDB’s absence

In a recent press conference, the Spaniard tactician spoke about the importance of using available players & not resorting to excuses. He said, “We are stronger with Kevin and Erling, but we cannot cry and wait five months (when they are missing) – we have to move forward, and we have done that.” Despite KDB’s brilliant cameo against Newcastle, Pep Guardiola is still cautious regarding the Belgian’s fitness.

Read More: Erling Haaland & Kevin De Bruyne Are Not Manchester City’s Biggest Strength, Claims Fluminense Boss

He explained, “Really soon, he will play from the beginning. He trained really well in Abu Dhabi, and after every session, the recovery in his leg is behaving well.” With the veteran midfielder & Erling Haaland almost back to full fitness, can Manchester City overtake the likes of Liverpool and spoil Jurgen Klopp’s farewell season? Tell us your predictions in the comments below.

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