Manchester City’s pursuit of the Premier League title has hit a setback as Erling Haaland, the Norwegian striker, has been ruled out of Thursday’s crucial match against Brighton.
Haaland, who missed City’s recent victory over Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final due to a muscle injury sustained in the Champions League quarter-final, remains sidelined.
However, Pep Guardiola remains hopeful that Haaland’s injury isn’t severe and he could return for Sunday’s match against Nottingham Forest.
Despite this setback, Guardiola received positive news with Phil Foden and John Stones being cleared to play against Brighton after their own fitness worries.
“Erling is not ready for tomorrow, the other two, they are ready,” Guardiola told reporters on Wednesday.
“I know it is not a big issue, but he is not allowed for this game.”
As a gripping title race approaches the final furlong, third placed City are four points behind leaders Arsenal, who thrashed Chelsea 5-0 on Tuesday.
Guardiola’s men have two games in hand on Arsenal and have played one match less than second placed Liverpool, who face Merseyside rivals Everton at Goodison Park on Wednesday.