Erling Haaland forced to leave Norway camp with groin injury in huge blow to Man City’s title hopes
ERLING HAALAND has pulled out of Norway’s squad for their upcoming internationals due to a groin injury.
The 22-year-old bagged eight goals in two games for Manchester City before domestic football was put on pause.
And now Pep Guardiola will fear the worst ahead of their Premier League title run-in.
A statement from the Norwegian Football Federation confirmed he will miss their upcoming games against Spain and Georgia.
It read: “Erling Braut Haaland had some pain in his groin after the match against Burnley.
“We hoped that this was just a familiarity that would carry over to Saturday, but after doing tests and examinations yesterday it became clear that he will not make it to the games against Spain and Georgia.
“It is better that he receives medical follow-up at the club, says national team doctor Ola Sand.
“Haaland thus travels home from the national team meeting.
“Erling took it hard when he realized that he could not fight for the team. Fortunately, there is still plenty of self-confidence, talent and cohesion in this group to win points in the next matches.
“We are not going to hang on one millimeter, but continue our work to be maximally prepared for Saturday and Tuesday, says national team manager Stale Solbakken.”
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Haaland has scored a remarkable 42 goals in 37 games for Man City this season.
He also boasts an impressive international record, netting 21 times in 23 appearances – although he is yet to help Norway qualify for a major tournament.
Man City have 11 games to go in the Premier League and are eight points behind leaders Arsenal.
They do have a game in hand on the Gunners, but face a tough test to retain their title.
Guardiola’s side take on bitter rivals Liverpool when the Premier League returns next week.
They also face a tricky two-legged Champions League tie against Bayern Munich in April.
Alongside that, City have an FA Cup semi-final against Sheffield United at Wembley.
This comes amid a potential title decider against Arsenal on April 26.