Manchester City fans hoping for Erling Haaland’s swift return to the pitch may need to temper their expectations. Manager Pep Guardiola has expressed uncertainty regarding the Norwegian forward’s participation in the upcoming Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Haaland has been on the sidelines, recovering from an ankle injury sustained during City’s FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth in March. Despite growing speculation about his return, Guardiola remains cautious about rushing the player back into action.
Pep Guardiola said: “He’s getting better (but) I don’t think so.”
In addition to Haaland’s situation, Guardiola provided an update on the fitness of Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder Rodri. The Spanish international has been out with a knee injury since September, following a match against Arsenal. His absence has been keenly felt by City, but there is optimism surrounding his recovery process.
Guardiola added: “The moment the doctor or physio says he can start to play minutes, after that he will start to play minutes. It was a difficult injury, 7-11 months the doctors said. He feels really good, every day he is making sessions, but we have to avoid making a step backwards and (getting) injured again. I don’t know (when he will play).”
As City prepares to face a resurgent Wolves side, led by new manager Vitor Pereira, Guardiola acknowledged the challenge ahead. Wolves have been in remarkable form, securing six consecutive wins and moving away from relegation danger.
Guardiola commented: “Wolves have always had, in the last years, really good players and now they’re having an incredible run. It’s another final for us, an important game.”
Off the pitch, Manchester City is dealing with fan dissatisfaction over ticketing issues. Some supporters missed the first nine minutes of the team’s recent home match against Leicester City. Guardiola has shown solidarity with the fans, supporting their right to protest and encouraging dialogue with the club.
Guardiola noted: “If I can help I will help. I am part of this club from the bottom and the top, but I am the manager and I do what I have to do to try and get the team playing as well as possible. They can express what they feel as a group of fans. They have issues they want to express, so the club is here, always has been and always will be open to listen to what they think.”
As Manchester City navigates these challenges, the focus remains on maintaining their strong form in the Premier League while addressing off-field concerns. The upcoming clash against Wolves will be a crucial test for Guardiola’s side as they aim to continue their pursuit of the league title.
