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The Norwegian star was the notable absence from Manchester City’s squad for their Saturday clash with Leeds United ahead of their meeting with Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium
18:17, 28 Feb 2026
Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland
Pep Guardiola says Man City star Erling Haaland's is carrying a small injury
Everything you need to know about Erling Haaland's injury ahead of Nottingham Forest's Premier League match with Manchester City on Wednesday evening.
Injury: Haaland was a surprise omission from the squad for the match against Leeds United after sustaining a 'little injury' during the final moments of a training session. Pep Guardiola confirmed that the striker had some problems two days prior and was simply not ready to feature in the Saturday evening clash against Leeds United.
What Guardiola has said: Speaking on Sky Sports before the game, the City boss revealed: "Two days ago in training he had some problems and a little injury. Not a big issue but not ready for today. We are without one top striker and we are playing with another top striker."
Severity and outlook: The manager clarified that the issue is not considered a major concern or a long-term setback for the Norwegian international. His absence from the Leeds game was largely a precaution to ensure the injury did not worsen during a critical stage of the season.
Availability for Forest: There is a strong optimism that Haaland will be fit enough to return for the home game against Nottingham Forest on Wednesday night. ViaPlay's Norwegian reporter Jan Aage Fjortoft has reported that he 'will be ready again as early as Wednesday.'
Context of absence: This is notably Haaland's first time missing a Premier League matchday squad since May 2025. He had played a full 90 minutes and provided an assist in the previous 2-1 win over Newcastle United on February 21, indicating the injury was a sudden development during the week.
Squad impact: In Haaland's absence, City shifted their attacking strategy, with players like Rayan Cherki and Omar Marmoush stepping up into the starting lineup. Guardiola remains confident in his squad's depth, noting that while they miss a 'top striker,' they have other elite options to lead the line.
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