Manchester City are facing a possible personnel blow ahead of their crucial Premier League fixture against Liverpool, as star forward Erling Haaland was forced off with an injury during Norway’s 2-1 defeat to Portugal.
The striker was forced out of the Nations League encounter after 67 minutes, signalling towards the Norway bench before being replaced by Jørgen Strand Larsen. The extent of Haaland’s injury has yet to be established.
According to BBC Sport, the development has raised concerns at Manchester City with the club set to travel to Liverpool on Sunday.
Haaland has scored seven goals for City this season and his availability will be closely monitored by manager Pep Guardiola ahead of the crucial Premier League fixture.
Before his substitution, Haaland had gone close to scoring for Norway when he dragged an effort wide, but he could not prevent his country from suffering a third successive Nations League defeat.
Norway took the lead in the 36th minute when Brentford defender Kristoffer Ajer brought down Martin Ødegaard’s cross on his chest before unleashing a superb half-volley into the top corner.
Portugal responded two minutes later through João Cancelo, who fired into the net from the edge of the box to level the score.
Gonçalo Ramos completed Portugal’s comeback with 11 minutes remaining, stabbing the ball home from close range after receiving a lay-off from João Félix.
Portugal were reduced to 10 men in the 87th minute when Francisco Conceição was sent off after receiving two quick bookings for dissent.
The victory secured Portugal’s place in the Nations League quarter-finals, while Norway remain bottom of the group with two matches still to play.
Manchester City will now wait for further medical assessments to determine whether Haaland will be fit to face Liverpool on Sunday.
What You Should Know
Erling Haaland’s recent injury scare while playing for Norway has caused anxiety for Manchester City supporters and management alike. As one of the team’s most vital goalscorers this season, his potential absence could significantly impact the squad’s performance in their upcoming high-profile Premier League showdown against Liverpool.
- Positive Impact: None for Manchester City currently, though rival Liverpool might view the potential absence of a key goalscorer as a strategic advantage for the fixture.
- Potential Concerns: Manchester City face the risk of losing their primary goal threat during a critical stage of the season, which could disrupt their tactical setup and momentum against a major title rival.
