Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that star striker Erling Haaland is struggling with injuries ahead of the new season.
Haaland, who has played in City’s three friendlies this summer, is not fully fit and Guardiola is managing his game time to avoid taking risks.
The Norwegian striker has been brought off at half-time in City’s last two pre-season games, including the 2-2 draw with Barcelona.
Guardiola stated that Haaland has “niggles” and is not comfortable, but they need him to take a step forward with training and minutes.
The City manager emphasized that they don’t want to take risks and lose him for several weeks or a month, which would be a problem.
Haaland’s injury issues are a concern for City, who start their season with the Community Shield against Manchester United on Saturday.
Guardiola has alternatives, including Oscar Bobb, who has impressed in pre-season.
However, Haaland’s fitness is crucial for City’s title defense.
In other news, Julian Alvarez is set to leave City for Atletico Madrid in a €95m (£81.5m) deal.
Guardiola has agreed to let Alvarez leave, stating that he couldn’t begrudge the player for seeking a new challenge.
Alvarez grew frustrated with a lack of opportunities in big games and wants to find something different.
Guardiola revealed that City might dip into the transfer market to sign a new defender or midfielder ahead of Alvarez’s departure.
The club hasn’t been busy in the transfer window so far, but Guardiola is open to making a new signing if the conditions are right.
City are happy to replace Alvarez with options already in the squad, including James McAtee and Oscar Bobb.
Meanwhile, David de Gea has joined a new club 12 months after leaving Manchester United.
The Spanish goalkeeper has found a new team, ending his search for a new club.
Erling Haaland’s injury issues are a concern for Manchester City ahead of the new season.
Pep Guardiola is managing his game time to avoid taking risks, while Julian Alvarez is set to leave the club for Atletico Madrid.
City might make a new signing in the transfer window, but are happy to replace Alvarez with options already in the squad.
