Pep Guardiola has confessed that he has not made a final decision on the fitness of striker Erling Haaland ahead of Manchester City’s trip to face Leicester on Saturday. Pep Guardiola unsure of Erling Haaland fitness.
The Norwegian midfielder had been ill prior to the weekend match against Borussia Dortmund and was replaced at half-time after sustaining a bump.
Before his pre-match news conference, Guardiola responded to the media, “He feels better, we are practicing this afternoon, and we will reassess.”
“We’ll see how he feels and if he’s in shape.” After we make a decision. It isn’t 24 hours. “I’ll know in two hours whether he’s ready to go or not.”
Guardiola also stated that Joao Cancelo, who was also removed against Dortmund, has been in full fitness ahead of the game, before delivering an update on England foreign players Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips, who are also injured.
The manager ruled the pair out of domestic play following the World Cup but refused to rule out as well Walker or Phillips traveling to Russia with Gareth Southgate’s team.
“They’re improving, especially Kalvin,” Guardiola said. “I’m confident they’ll be ready after the World Cup.”
“Apparently, what [Phillips] said to me in the cafeteria when I met him, he came to Dortmund, and he feels extremely well.” When his elbow mobility is optimal, he can begin training with the ball while avoiding touch with his teammates. We are astounded by his rapid development.
“If he’s fit and I think he can play and is prepared, he might be able to play minutes, but I don’t know eh now.” They have replied positively, they are optimistic, they are in contact with Gareth, and perhaps they have further material. Eventually, they will be eligible to be chosen.”
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Is Erling Haaland playing today? Latest Man City injury news
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Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has a few injury concerns to contend with ahead of his side’s trip to Leicester on Saturday – including a rather large one in attack.
Erling Haaland was substituted at halftime during City’s 0-0 draw with Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, as he suffered a foot injury.
Guardiola stated in his news conference on Friday that he was unsure if Haaland would just be able to play versus Leicester, adding that the team wanted to do some testing on its star player. However, the 22-year-old did not make the team when it was announced an hour before kickoff.
Meanwhile, the only other notable absences from City’s roster are Kyle Walker and Kalvin Philips, who are both recovering from surgery after suffering injuries early on in the season.
Both individuals are still hopeful of making England’s World Cup roster next month.
“Those who are not prepared for Leicester,” Guardiola said.
“They’re improving, notably Kalvin.” When he arrived in Dortmund, he reportedly stated that he feels great. He began training with ball contact – he has not yet exercised with his colleagues – but he feels wonderful, and we are surprised. ” If he is fit and able to play (in the World Cup), he will, but we don’t understand yet.
“They are upbeat [Walker and Phillips]. They have contacted Gareth [Southgate]. Perhaps, they will be equipped and chosen.”
Guardiola also stated that goalkeeper Ederson, who missed the Dortmund game in midweek, will be available to meet Leicester.
