Manchester City’s hopes of derailing rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford have taken a hit as star striker Erling Haaland remains sidelined with an ankle injury. The Norwegian powerhouse, who has netted 21 Premier League goals this season, suffered the setback during City’s FA Cup quarter-final win over Bournemouth in March. With Pep Guardiola’s side locked in a tense top-four battle—just one point behind Chelsea—the absence of their talismanic forward looms large.
But will Haaland defy expectations and make a surprise appearance in Sunday’s derby? Here’s the latest.
Pep Guardiola’s blunt update: Erling Haaland ruled out for multiple weeks
Guardiola delivered a sobering verdict ahead of the clash, confirming Haaland faces an extended spell on the sidelines.
“They told me the doctors [estimate] between five to seven weeks,” the City boss revealed.
The injury, diagnosed as a syndesmosis sprain (a high ankle ligament tear), occurred when Erling Haaland’s foot was “squashed” during a tackle, per injury analyst Stephen Smith. The 23-year-old left the Vitality Stadium on crutches, with scans later revealing damage to the ligament binding his ankle joint.
This timeline rules Haaland out of the Manchester derby and casts doubt on his FA Cup final availability should City advance. Guardiola admitted the striker’s return could align with the Premier League finale against Fulham (May 25) or the Club World Cup in June.
“We’ll miss him, but injuries are part of football,” he added.
Marmoush steps up: City’s new attacking gamble
In Haaland’s absence, January signing Omar Marmoush has emerged as an unlikely hero. The Egyptian forward, who scored in City’s midweek win over Leicester, is poised to lead the line at Old Trafford. Guardiola praised his adaptability:
“Omar has shown he can deliver in crucial moments.”
With 21-goal Erling Haaland sidelined, Marmoush’s clinical edge—and Guardiola’s tactical tweaks—will be pivotal to unlocking United’s defense.
Tactical reshuffle and title implications
City’s fifth-place standing amplifies the stakes. A derby win could propel them into the top four, but without Haaland’s physicality, Guardiola may opt for a fluid false-nine system. Kevin De Bruyne’s creativity and Phil Foden’s versatility will be crucial, though United’s shaky backline (45 goals conceded) offers hope.
The road ahead
While Erling Haaland’s absence is a blow, City’s depth has cushioned the impact. Guardiola’s side remains unbeaten in their last six league matches, with Marmoush and Julián Álvarez sharing the scoring burden. As Smith noted, syndesmosis injuries require patience: “Every step risks re-injury.” For now, City’s title charge hinges on collective grit—not individual brilliance.