Pep Guardiola issues fresh update on Erling Haaland fitness ahead of Tottenham clash | OneFootball

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has issued a fresh update on the fitness of Erling Haaland ahead of the club’s visit to Tottenham on Wednesday night.

The Norway international striker has been absent from Manchester City’s last two matches having sustained a knee problem during the 4-0 win over Newcastle United in Premier League action over a week ago.

Haaland appears to have continued training as normal alongside his teammates since then but informed the club of discomfort when walking, particularly up and down stairs, prior to the eventual defeat to Real Madrid in UEFA Champions League action.

The 24-year-old was then withdrawn entirely from the weekend’s 0-2 home defeat to Liverpool, with Pep Guardiola stating after the game that a decision on his availability had been made after training before the contest against Arne Slot’s men.

“He improved, but he didn’t feel good,” Guardiola said on Sunday. On whether he would be fit for the upcoming clash with Tottenham, he continued, “I don’t know. I’d like to know but I don’t… It’s a knee (injury).”

“Against Newcastle made some movement in the knee. Apparently it’s not dangerous, all the exams and proof dictates that it’s fine, but he didn’t feel fine. I have the feeling (he will be back) soon, because yesterday we trained and made some movements really good.

“But he said he was not ready, and we have to respect that. Hopefully against Spurs or next games he can help us.”

Now, Pep Guardiola has had opportunity to provide a further update on Erling Haaland’s fitness during his pre-match press conference ahead of the trip to face Tottenham Hotspur in North London.

However, the Manchester City boss was only able to confirm that a decision would be known later on Tuesday after training. “I hope so, but I don’t know yet,” he said. “He feels better, but in the last two games he could not play, we’ll see tomorrow.”

Manchester City’s clash with Tottenham will be the third and final meeting between the two clubs this season, with the North London club aiming for a clean sweep of victories against the reigning Premier League champions.

A Carabao Cup fourth round exit at the hands of Ange Postecoglou’s side opened up proceedings between the two clubs this season, before Tottenham inflicted a remarkable 0-4 scoreline upon Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.

Despite being firmly ruled out of the chase for the Premier League title, City will know the importance of victory this week as they look to not only build momentum for the rest of the campaign but also strengthen their chances of a top-four finish in the division.