Man City have received a major fitness boost ahead of their Premier League match against Arsenal this week.
Pep Guardiola and his players were left somewhat concerned at half-time of their eventual 3-1 win over Aston Villa, when Erling Haaland was replaced at the interval following a blow to his thigh against Unai Emery’s men.
Speaking after the game, Pep Guardiola was asked to provide an update on the Norwegian forward, to which he responded, “If the result was more tight then maybe I don’t do it (take off Erling Haaland at half-time).”
“I don’t think he’s injured, but tomorrow we will see. Hopefully he can be in for Wednesday. If it is a risk or he is not ready, he’s not going to play.”
Now however, a much-needed boost for both supporters and teammates alike has been provided on the Man City striker, ahead of their trip to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night.
As revealed in new training photos provided by Man City’s official club website on Monday afternoon, Erling Haaland participated in training as normal, despite being replaced at half-time on Sunday afternoon.
Erling Haaland: Training 𝗮𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗹. 🤖✅ @ManCity pic.twitter.com/JIBEQ46fw1
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) February 13, 2023
Man City will be facing Arsenal in the Premier League for the first time since January 2022, knowing that a win at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday night could move them within just three points of Mikel Arteta’s side.
City have however already beaten Arsenal once this season, knocking out their Premier League title challengers in the FA Cup fourth round at the Etihad Stadium, courtesy of a single goal from Nathan Ake in the second-half.
A fifth round tie against Bristol City at Ashton Gate now awaits Man City, as they look to compliment a Premier League title challenge with a first FA Cup trophy since 2019, and a second crown in the competition since the takeover.
source: cityxtra.co.uk
