Guardiola confirms Erling Haaland fitness for Southampton clash | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed Erling Braut Haaland is available for their Premier League clash against Southampton tomorrow.

The striker suffered a groin injury during their 6-0 win over Burnley in the FA Cup on March 18.

The 22-year-old was out of action over the international break. He missed crucial clashes for Norway as they began their 2024 European Championship qualifying campaign.

Haaland worked hard to return but was not fit for City’s 4-1 win over Liverpool, watching the game from the stands.

Julian Alvarez led the line and opened the scoring against the Reds as City kept the pressure on Arsenal in the Premier League title race.

However, with Haaland fit and firing, Alvarez may drop to the bench to make space for the Premier League’s top scorer.

Answering questions about Haaland at his press conference today, Guardiola said (via Man City’s website): “He trained the last two days really good – he will be ready.”

Haaland has bagged 28 goals and five assists in his 26 league appearances. He will back himself to add to that tally against one of the league’s most porous defences.

The Norwegian has been one of the best players in the league this season, but World Cup winner Alvarez is a superb back-up option.

Man City will hope to keep the pressure on league table-toppers Arsenal as they race for the Premier League title.

They have a game in hand on the Gunners and will welcome them to the Etihad Stadium later this month.

Despite the gap between the two teams, City goalkeeper Ederson Moraes believes they can pip Arsenal to the title.

Former Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney believes Arsenal do not have the mental strength to clinch the title and has tipped City to overhaul them.