Man City Sweat Over Erling Haaland Fitness as Semenyo Faces Eight Weeks Out

Manchester City are facing uncertainty over Erling Haaland’s availability for their upcoming European fixture after the striker suffered a foot injury during Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town.

The Norway international scored twice in the match, taking his Premier League tally to eight goals for the season and extending his scoring run to six consecutive league games. However, the injury has raised concerns over whether he will be fit to face AEK at the Etihad Stadium.

City are also looking to respond after suffering a 4-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in their previous European outing. Manager Enzo Maresca said Haaland’s condition would be assessed following training, although the striker was reportedly absent from the session open to the media.

“To replace Erling is always difficult but we have some different options,” Maresca said, explaining that any decision would depend on the team’s game plan. He added that Haaland remained the first choice at centre-forward if fit.

Haaland’s possible absence would create a selection problem for City, particularly after Antoine Semenyo was ruled out for up to eight weeks with a left knee injury sustained against Ipswich. The Ghana international has made 10 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring twice and providing three assists.

One possible replacement is Phil Foden, who ended his Premier League scoring drought on Saturday with his first league goal since December. Maresca confirmed that the England international could operate as a false nine, having played in the position before.

Another option is Iliman Ndiaye, who has experience playing as a striker during Sheffield United’s promotion-winning campaign in 2022-23. He scored 14 goals that season, demonstrating his ability to lead the attack.

City could also consider Rayan Cherki in a false-nine role. Former manager Pep Guardiola previously praised the Frenchman’s suitability for the position, and Cherki has scored while operating there in a domestic cup match. However, Maresca’s final choice will depend on Haaland’s fitness and the tactical demands of the game.

Maresca said the initial concern over Semenyo’s injury had eased after medical scans, but indicated the forward could be sidelined until around December. With both attackers facing fitness concerns, City may need to rely on tactical flexibility as they prepare for their European assignment.