Man City Faces Uncertainty Over Haaland’s Fitness Ahead of FA Cup Semi-Final

In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

  • Erling Haaland’s participation in Manchester City’s FA Cup semi-final against Chelsea is uncertain due to a muscular issue; his recovery progress will determine if he can play.
  • Despite City’s Champions League loss to Real Madrid and the potential absence of Haaland, Guardiola is focused on bouncing back and aiming for the domestic double, emphasizing the need to accept setbacks and move forward.
Manchester City
Soccer Football – FA Cup – Quarter-Final – Manchester City v Burnley – Etihad Stadium, Manchester, Britain – March 18, 2023 Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola with Erling Braut Haaland REUTERS/Phil Noble

Pep Guardiola has announced that Erling Haaland may miss Manchester City’s FA Cup semi-final match against Chelsea at Wembley on Saturday. 

Haaland was taken off before extra time during City’s Champions League quarter-final second-leg loss to Real Madrid on Wednesday.

Following the penalty shoot-out defeat, Guardiola mentioned that Haaland requested to be substituted, citing a muscular issue. 

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The team’s medical staff confirmed Haaland has some minor discomfort, and his participation will be determined by his recovery progress.

While Haaland’s fitness is in question, City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is expected to play against Chelsea after being substituted during extra time against Real due to fatigue. 

Guardiola acknowledged that fatigue is inevitable given City’s busy schedule and the demanding intensity of the games.

Guardiola recognized the human limitations of his players, who are feeling the effects of a grueling season, including extra time and high-pressure games. 

City’s shoot-out loss against Real Madrid dashed their hopes of a Premier League, Champions League, and FA Cup treble for a second consecutive season.

Despite the disappointment, Guardiola is focused on ensuring the Premier League leaders bounce back from their European setback and remain on track to secure the domestic double. 

He emphasized the importance of accepting defeat and moving forward without dwelling on the past.

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“We don’t have another option,” Guardiola stated. “We performed at our best, and it wasn’t enough. We must congratulate Real and look ahead to the FA Cup.”

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