Erling Haaland has left Manchester City facing fresh uncertainty after the Norway striker was forced off during his country’s 2-1 defeat by Portugal in the Nations League on Sunday.
Haaland reported discomfort in the 67th minute and asked to be substituted. Norway’s coaching staff responded by sending on Jørgen Strand Larsen in his place, with the Manchester City forward unable to complete the match.
His withdrawal has caused concern among Manchester City supporters and manager Enzo Maresca, with the club preparing to return to Premier League action. Haaland is regarded as one of the most important attacking players in the squad, making the timing of the possible injury particularly worrying.
Portugal’s victory secured their place in the quarter-finals of the competition under manager Jorge Jesus. Norway, meanwhile, suffered another defeat in the tournament and remain at the bottom of their group with 3 points.
Manchester City are now waiting for further details about the extent of Haaland’s injury and how long he may be unavailable. The club will be especially keen to establish whether he can play against Liverpool on Sunday, when the two sides meet in the sixth round of the Premier League.
The setback adds to a difficult international break for Manchester City, who could lose one of their main attacking threats before a fixture that carries major significance in the early title race. The club have little room for error if Haaland is ruled out at this stage of the season.
Manchester City have also been charged with more than 100 alleged breaches by the Premier League. The club are awaiting confirmation of any punishment, despite maintaining their innocence and submitting an appeal.
They will go into the Liverpool match at the top of the Premier League table with a perfect record, having collected 15 points from their opening five matches. Liverpool are sixth with 9 points, making the meeting important for both teams as they seek to challenge for first place.
Haaland’s condition is therefore expected to be the immediate focus for Manchester City’s coaching staff and supporters. The forward’s availability for Sunday’s match will depend on the assessment of the injury sustained while playing for Norway.