Erling Haaland has raised concerns about his physical condition after requesting to be substituted during Manchester City’s match against Everton on Sunday.
Erling Haaland has sparked injury concerns after he asked Pep Guardiola to substitute him during Manchester City’s match against Everton on Sunday.
Haaland approached Pep Guardiola on the touchline with less than 15 minutes remaining and asked to be subbed. Guardiola agreed, and Haaland was replaced by Jack Grealish during the next break in play on the 78th minute. It is unclear whether Haaland needed a rest or was dealing with an injury at the time. This development has sparked concerns among City fans just three days before their crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Real Madrid at the Etihad. The tie is delicately balanced at 1-1 after the first leg in Madrid.
Losing Haaland would be a big blow
for Manchester City, given the Norwegian striker’s outstanding form this season. Haaland scored his 52nd goal of the season in all competitions on Sunday, contributing to City’s 3-0 win at Goodison Park. After completing a €60 million transfer from Borussia Dortmund last summer, the 23-year-old has been a key player for City, helping them to the verge of a continental treble. City is currently the favorite to win another Premier League title and has also advanced to the FA Cup final. If they can overcome Real Madrid in Wednesday’s Champions League semi-final, they will face either Inter or Milan in the final next month.