Man City striker Erling Haaland could feature in the club’s final pre-season friendly against Chelsea on tonight, according to manager Pep Guardiola.
Haaland was substituted during Manchester City’s midweek clash with FC Barcelona in Orlando due to muscular “niggles,” reports AFP.
Guardiola explained that the decision to withdraw Haaland was a precautionary measure to avoid exacerbating the issue.
“He was disturbing something,” Guardiola said after the match.
“He didn’t feel comfortable and we didn’t want to take the risk. But sooner or later, he will have to take the step to training and playing minutes. The season is there, around the corner.”
Speaking from Columbus this week, Guardiola provided an update on the Norwegian striker’s condition, noting that Haaland is now “much better” following the minor injury.
The Man City manager indicated that the 24-year-old might feature against Chelsea, stating, “He told me today he woke up much better.”
With the new season approaching and backup striker Julian Alvarez absent from the pre-season squad, Guardiola may need to explore alternative options if Haaland is not fit to start.
In recent matches, Guardiola has experimented with players like Jack Grealish, Oscar Bobb, James McAtee, and Rico Lewis in the false-nine role.
McAtee is expected to assume this position if Haaland is unavailable, although further tactical experimentation could be on display against Chelsea.
