Manchester City forward Erling Haaland is a doubt for the team’s upcoming Premier League game against Arsenal on Wednesday, manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed. This comes after Haaland picked up a knock to his leg during the 3-1 win over Aston Villa on Sunday.
“Erling has a kick and we will see in the next days how he will do,” Guardiola stated in a news conference. “At halftime, I spoke with the doctors and they said maybe don’t take risks at 3-0 up and I agree with the doctors. Maybe if it was more tight then I don’t do it. I think it is not injured but tomorrow [Monday] we will see. Maybe [he can play] Wednesday but if there is some risks he is not going to play.”
Aside from Haaland’s injury, concern was also expressed over the disagreement that arose between Haaland, Rodri, and Riyad Mahrez over who should take the penalty that was awarded late in the first half. While Haaland is the designated penalty kick taker, Rodri became involved and handed the ball to Mahrez, who scored to put City three goals up.
Guardiola explained that Haaland is normally the first-choice kick taker while Mahrez is second on the list and that he would be sure to speak with his players to understand what happened and clear the air.
