“It’s a question of time” – Pep Guardiola shines light on Erling Haaland injury struggle

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has detailed Erling Haaland’s recent injury struggle, as the Norwegian prepares to resume his maiden Premier League campaign.

Haaland, who scored within ten minutes of his return to competitive action last Thursday, faces Leeds United on Wednesday evening – a club his father made 72 appearances for between 1997 and 2000.

The 22 year-old was born in Leeds and also has history with Jesse Marsch, having been managed by the American manager in 2019 at RB Salzburg.

Haaland has scored 24 goals for Manchester City since signing from Borussia Dortmund in June, with the Norwegian currently leading the race for the Premier League golden boot.

Only three teams have prevented the 22 year-old from scoring so far this season, with City having never lost when Haaland has been on the scoresheet.

The striker has become integral to Pep Guardiola’s side and worryingly suffered a minor injury during a Champions League game against his former club Dortmund in October.

A ligament injury led to the Blues forward missing City’s hard-fought win over Leicester City prior to the World Cup.

Ahead of the Sky Blues’ return to Premier League action on Wednesday, manager Pep Guardiola detailed the 22 year-olds injury issue.

“I think he will be ready. Day by day he’s getting better. As much, he can train, he will get his condition,” said Guardiola.

“The injury is completely different to last season. It was a knock in his feet in Dortmund when we played Champions League. The doctor says his damage his ligament in his feet is so painful, it’s not easy to recover. That’s why he struggled.”

“But muscular issues and everything is perfect and now he is much, much, much better. Now it’s a question of time. Of course, we need him. And yes, he was good [against Liverpool].

Manchester City have two fixtures remaining before the end of the year, with Arsenal having opened up an eight point gap at the top of the table with a win over West Ham on Boxing Day.