Manchester City injury update: Latest updates on Erling Haaland, Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic
Manchester City continue to deal with a demanding schedule, with Pep Guardiola’s team management under the spotlight. Fans were concerned when Haaland missed the FA Cup tie against Newcastle United, although City still managed a convincing 3-1 victory. A goal from Savinho and a brace from Omar Marmouche ensured City progressed comfortably.
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While the result is reassuring, the availability of key players such as Erling Haaland and Josco Gvaldiol remains a major talking point ahead of key matches, including the Champions League tie against Real Madrid.
Here’s the latest injury news and expected return dates from Manchester City.
Erling Haaland gives fitness update ahead of Real Madrid game
When Erling Haaland missed the FA Cup tie against Newcastle, many immediately feared a setback for Manchester City’s top scorer. Guardiola moved quickly to quell those concerns.
The Norwegian striker’s absence is a planned decision rather than a reaction to a new injury. Guardiola wants Haaland to stay in Manchester and focus on training rather than traveling for limited guest appearances.
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“I had no intention of playing him,” Guardiola said. “I would have preferred [him to have] Better training sessions than just 10 to 15 minutes of travel and competition. “
PhotoIMAGO
Haaland had already missed last weekend’s game against Leeds United but was ruled out against Nottingham Forest in midweek with a minor knock. Erling Haaland is currently expected to be available when City travel to the Bernabeu for their Champions League last-16 tie.
Real Madrid will lose Kylian Mbappe, which could tilt the side further in Guardiola’s favor if Haaland leads the charge.
Possible return date: March 11 vs. Real Madrid (away)
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Josco Gvadiol deals with long-term injury
While Haaland’s absence appears to be temporary, the situation surrounding Josko Gvardiol is much more serious.
The Croatian defender has been sidelined after suffering a broken leg in the draw with Chelsea earlier this year. At the time, Gvardiol was one of the most reliable players in Guardiola’s defensive system, and his absence was a major blow to City.
Photo: IMAGO
Injuries have also contributed to a wider defensive crisis over the winter, forcing Guardiola to rotate heavily and rely on younger players.
Despite the serious setback, Gwadiol took to social media to send a firm message to supporters.
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“This is a tough moment, but it will never define me. I know who I am and where I come from. I will fight every day to make myself stronger. I will rise again and be better than ever.”
City hope the defender can spend the rest of the season recovering and rehabilitating.
Possible return date: Summer 2026
Mateo Kovacic inching closer to return to Manchester City
Midfielder Mateo Kovacic has endured a frustrating season at Manchester City. An ankle injury suffered during last summer’s Club World Cup limited him to just 39 minutes of playing time all season.
The Croatian international has already undergone two surgeries on his ankle, which has naturally slowed his recovery. However, there is finally some positive momentum.
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Guardiola confirmed Kovacic has returned to first-team training.
“He’s finally back to training in the last three or four training sessions,” Guardiola said last week.
“However, his condition will take time. But the most important thing is that after the second operation, his ankle is much better than the first operation.”
“Maybe he can provide us with good quality until the end of the season.”
Clarity in the game will take time to build and Guardiola is unlikely to return him to the City squad. The upcoming international break could also impact whether Kovacic returns before April.
Possible return date: late March or April
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Team depth helps Manchester City control injuries
One of the reasons City continue to deal with injury setbacks effectively is the depth of Guardiola’s squad.
Young defender Max Alleyne has made eight appearances since returning from a loan spell at Watford in January. He recently played the full 90 minutes for the Under-21s in their second Premier League win over Aston Villa after suffering an injury in the FA Cup win over Salford City on Valentine’s Day.
Such a performance suggests he could soon be in contention for selection again, possibly even taking part in the Champions League trip to Madrid.
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With Erling Haaland likely to return, Josko Gvardiol continuing his recovery and Mateo Kovacic intensifying his training, City are gradually seeing their squad stabilize at a decisive stage of the season.
