Man City hit with major setback as Haaland faces 7-week layoff

• Erling Haaland has been ruled out for up to seven weeks after suffering an ankle injury in Manchester City’s FA Cup win over Bournemouth
• Pep Guardiola confirmed the striker’s extended absence, stating that City’s medical team expects him to return only towards the end of the season
• Despite currently sitting fifth in the Premier League, City could still qualify for the Champions League, but Haaland’s injury is undoubtedly a major challenge

Premier League champions Manchester City have been dealt a major blow in their quest for silverware this season, with Pep Guardiola confirming that Erling Haaland will be out for up to seven weeks due to an ankle injury. 

The Norwegian goal machine was forced off during City's FA Cup quarterfinal victory over Bournemouth on Monday, March 30, raising concerns over his availability for the rest of the campaign.

Haaland, who had just netted his 30th goal of the season in that match, was initially expected to return in time to contribute to the final stretch of City's season. 

However, Guardiola revealed that the club’s medical staff had projected a recovery timeline of five to seven weeks, meaning the 24-year-old could miss the majority of City’s remaining fixtures.

With only nine Premier League matches left, as well as an FA Cup semifinal against Nottingham Forest in April, Haaland's absence could significantly impact City's push for domestic and European success. 

While City are currently fifth in the Premier League, strong performances from English clubs in European competitions could ensure that fifth place is enough for Champions League qualification. However, missing their most prolific scorer could complicate their chase for a top-four finish.

Guardiola acknowledged the difficulty of replacing Haaland, stating that the team would need to adapt by relying on players with different qualities, 

"Erling’s numbers again have been exceptional, and he is an incredible threat, but we have to adjust and bring more players closer to the box to compensate for his absence," Guardiola said.

City have battled injuries throughout the season, with midfield anchor Rodri also missing significant time. Guardiola pointed out that such setbacks are part of football, but the timing of Haaland’s injury is particularly frustrating given how much is at stake.

Despite the challenge, Guardiola remained optimistic, stating, 

“We’ve had tougher battles before. We will find a solution with the players available and keep pushing.”

A seven-week layoff means Haaland could return in time for the FIFA Club World Cup, but his absence from the final stretch of the Premier League season may prove costly. 

7 amazing facts about hat-trick master Erling Haaland you may not have never heard

Previously, TheRadar reported that following his treble against Ipswich Town, Erling Haaland struck all three goals in City's 3-1 victory over West Ham, bringing his season total to seven. 

Guardiola praised Haaland's finishing prowess, stating that no defender could stop him, not even with extreme measures, due to his incredible speed and power. Now fully rested and re-energised, Haaland is more dangerous than ever as he continues to dominate the Premier League.