Erling Haaland suffered an injury, casting a shadow over Manchester City's season ambitions to secure a spot in Europe next season. Haaland picked up an ankle injury after a collision with a Bournemouth defender in the 57th minute. He immediately signalled for a substitution and was taken off the pitch.
Post-match, Haaland was seen leaving the field wearing a protective boot on his left foot and using crutches. His serious expression reflected his anxiety, and he did not acknowledge the fans' cheers.
According to The Telegraph, Haaland’s departure while wearing an orthopaedic boot and crutches has raised serious fears that he could miss the remainder of the season. Manchester City is now eagerly awaiting the results of his medical examination.
City register hard fought win over Bournemouth despite Haaland's injury
The match wasn’t an easy one for Manchester City. Haaland missed a penalty in the 14th minute, and just two minutes later, he missed a one-on-one chance against the goalkeeper by shooting over the crossbar. The early struggles quickly turned into a setback, as Manchester City conceded the first goal in the 21st minute after a defensive error led to a counterattack and a goal from Evaniusong.
However, Manchester City managed a comeback in the second half. Coach Pep Guardiola made a key tactical change, substituting defender Abdulkadir Husanov with young talent Niko O'Reilly.
In the 50th minute, O'Reilly received a through pass from Kevin De Bruyne, and delivered a low cross that Haaland finished into the net for the equalizer.
Soon after, Haaland was substituted due to injury, O'Reilly stepped up. In the 64th minute, he made a composed pass to Marmus who scored the winning goal with a right-footed strike, securing the 2-1 victory for Manchester City.
With less than three months remaining in the season, there are concerns that if the injury is severe, he could be sidelined for the rest of the campaign.
The win for Manchester City and semifinal place in the FA Cup, improving their chances of avoiding a trophy-less season. The team had already been knocked out of the EFL Cup and the UEFA Champions League, and they currently sit 5th in the Premier League.
