Man City suffer major Erling Haaland blow ahead of key Premier League title clash vs Arsenal

Arsenal have received a major boost ahead of their Premier League clash against Manchester City as Erling Haaland is substituted through injury.

Things were going swimmingly well for City during the first half against Villa with goals from Rodri, Ilkay Gundogan and Riyad Mahrez putting the home side up 3-0. However, during the break – despite having registered an assist for Gundogan’s goal – Haaland was taken off for Julian Alvarez, while Manuel Akanji also came on for Ruben Dias.

The exact extent of his injury is unclear but Sky Sport cameras caught the forward receiving treatment on the side of the pitch after colliding with Emi Martinez.

Speaking to reporters after the game, Guardiola confirmed: “Erling has a kick and we will assess in the next few days.”

He added: “If he’s not ready, we’ll play someone else… we will see.”

Guardiola’s comments mean that Haaland’s status for Wednesday’s crunch showdown with Arsenal is now unclear.

If Haaland is unavailable for Manchester City’s top-of-the-table clash against Arsenal on Wednesday then it’s devastating news for Manchester City fans, but Arsenal fans certainly won’t be too disappointed.

An injury would be a massive blow for City with Haaland relentless in the Premier League this season scoring 25 goals in 20 appearances.

Mikel Arteta’s side dropping points against Brentford opened the door for City to close the gap ahead of their battle in north London. With City cruising to victory against Villa they will move up to 48 points, just three off Arsenal where a win would take them top for the first time this season.