Erling Haaland may miss remainder of the season in large blow to Man City’s prime 4 hopes

Manchester City’s hopes of Champions League qualification have suffered yet another setback following the bombshell news that star striker Erling Haaland is injured

Erling Haaland could miss the rest of the season – in what would be a huge blow to Manchester City’s hopes of Champions League qualification.

The City striker has damaged ankle ligaments and could be sidelined for several months.

The Norwegian striker suffered the injury in last weekend’s FA Cup win at Bournemouth – and left the Vitality Stadium in a protective boot.

He underwent initial tests and will now visit a specialist to find out the full extent of the problem, and if he needs an operation.

A City statement said: ” Manchester City can confirm that Erling Haaland has suffered an injury to his left ankle.

“Erling underwent initial tests in Manchester on Monday morning, and will now seek specialist consultation to confirm the full extent of the injury.

“Assessment remains ongoing to ascertain a full prognosis. The expectation is that Erling will be fit in time to play a further part in the remainder of this season, including this summer’s FIFA Club World Cup. “Everyone at the Club wishes Erling a speedy recovery.”

Haaland has scored 30 or more goals in three successive seasons, and was vital to Pep Guardiola’s chances of securing a top four finish.

The English champions are fifth in the table ahead of Wednesday’s home clash with Leicester City.

But with just two wins in their last six league games, City find themselves in a congested fight with those around them.

Just four points separate themselves and 10th place Bournemouth.

Fifth should be enough to guarantee qualification, due to England’s strong coefficient ranking.

Guardiola will now look to new signing Omar Marmoush to lead City’s attack in the absence of Haaland.

Marmoush has made an impressive state to life at the Etihad, scoring five goals in his first eight starts for City.