Erling Haaland has been played for Man City since December 6(Image: (Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images))

Erling Haaland delivers Man City injury update amid Arsenal Premier League title race

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has not played since the first week of December and could miss the rest of this month through injury

13 Jan 2024, 10:56 by Sam Truelove, Isaac Johnson · football.london

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has shared a cryptic message on social media amidst his ongoing injury woes. The 23-year-old is set to spend more time off the pitch after doctors advised him against training this week.

The Norwegian has not played since the Premier League champions' defeat to Aston Villa last month due to a foot injury and he will be missing from City's squad for Saturday's clash against Newcastle United. "No," Pep Guardiola said when asked if Haaland will play at Newcastle.

"Jack [Grealish] has been sick. Hopefully today he’s back. Erling is out and John is out. I think that's everything."

While Haaland will not travel with the squad to Tyneside, it appears he is still working hard on his fitness. He posted an image on Instagram with a black paste mask covering his mouth and captioned it: "Think outside the box". Despite his current situation, the photo shows Haaland in a gym, hinting at his determination to return to the field soon.

Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku made a comeback in the 5-0 FA Cup match against Huddersfield last weekend. However, Manuel Akanji won't be playing in the Newcastle match, joining John Stones on the injury list.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Aston Villa will be among the teams keeping tabs on Haaland's situation, given they are challenging City for the title this season. Jurgen Klopp's side currently lead the way on 45 points, while Villa sit second on 42 points. City and the Gunners are third and fourth respectively having accrued 40 points.

Mikel Arteta's side are currently in Dubai for a mid-season warm weather training camp. They are next in action next Saturday against Crystal Palace in what could be a must-win fixture.

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story.

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