Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola sets return date for Erling Haaland ahead of 2025 FIFA Club World Cup
Manchester City suffered a major blow over the weekend after Erling Haaland was forced off due to injury at a decisive point in the season. With the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup on the horizon, head coach Pep Guardiola has provided an optimistic timeline for the Norwegian star’s return.
During Sunday’s FA Cup clash against Bournemouth, the Citizens secured a 2-1 victory to book their place in the semifinals. However, the win came at a cost, as midfielder Lewis Cook landed on Haaland’s left ankle in the 61st minute, forcing the striker to leave the pitch.
Speaking in Tuesday’s press conference, Guardiola addressed the growing list of injuries in the squad: “Sometimes there are years when these kinds of things happen. I would say that it could have been different if it was the end of the season. So, with all the injuries we have had this season, I’m so sorry for them and for Erling as well.“
The City boss then revealed the timeline given by the club’s medical staff: “I wish him a good recovery, as quickly as possible and then come back. The doctors told me between five and seven weeks. So hopefully, for the end of season and FIFA Club World Cup, he will be ready.”
Haaland is expected to miss a series of crucial fixtures, including matches against Leicester City, Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Everton, and a potentially pivotal clash against Nottingham Forest—one of City’s direct rivals for a UEFA Champions League spot.
The timing of the injury is unfortunate, but Guardiola remains hopeful. If all goes to plan, Haaland should return in time for the run-in and the prestigious Club World Cup, set to kick off in mid-June.
Guardiola faces challenge of replacing Haaland
“We will find a solution for the players we have and different skills and qualities. We don’t have another player with his skills or specific qualities, we know that. But we have to adapt,” Guardiola said when asked how he plans to cope without his top scorer.
Replacing Haaland is no simple task. With JuliAn Alvarez sold last summer, City lacks a true backup striker. The only natural replacement in the squad is Omar Marmoush, a forward with a completely different profile to the Norwegian.
Another possible option is to revert to a system used in the past, where Guardiola deployed Kevin De Bruyne as a false nine. However, the Belgian’s current fitness and form raise questions about whether he can consistently fill that role.
“For many years, we’ve played with different ways up front and it depends on the qualities of the players. We’re going to try to find another solution,” Guardiola added. Despite Guardiola’s optimism, replacing a player who has scored 30 goals in 40 games this season will be one of his toughest tactical challenges yet.