Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Erling Haaland was withdrawn at half time in Manchester City's 6-1 Premier League win over Bournemouth on Saturday due to a minor ankle problem.
Haaland was named in the starting lineup and entered the contest at the Etihad Stadium in fine form after scoring five goals in his previous three appearances across all competitions, including a brace in last weekend's 3-0 derby triumph over Manchester United.
However, the Norwegian was unable to get on the scoresheet against Bournemouth as Man City eased into a three-goal lead in the first half, before he gingerly hobbled down the tunnel after the half-time whistle blew.
Haaland did not emerge for the second half as Guardiola opted to replace the striker with Phil Foden at half time, and the City boss has since explained the decision to withdraw their leading marksman.
Speaking to Match of the Day, Guardiola said: "He twisted the ankle, we didn't want to take risks with him he didn't feel comfortable. He'll be back maybe Tuesday but maybe next Sunday."
Haaland has played in all but one of Man City's fixtures across all competitions so far this season, the only exception being the 1-0 EFL Cup loss to Newcastle United in September when he watched on as an unused substitute.
City's No.9 has carried his exceptional goalscoring form from last season into the 2023-24 campaign, netting 13 times in 16 appearances, including 11 goals in as many Premier League games.
Haaland's injury concern makes him a doubt for Tuesday's Champions League group-stage clash at home against Young Boys, while it remains to be seen whether he will be fit to feature in next Saturday's Premier League trip to Chelsea.
Despite Haaland's first-half withdrawal against Bournemouth, Man City had no problems finding the net as Jeremy Doku stole the show by contributing to five of their six goals – scoring once and providing four assists to break two Premier League records.
The Belgian winger opened the scoring on the half-hour mark before setting up goals scored by Bernardo Silva (2), Manuel Akanji and Foden, while Nathan Ake added a sixth in the closing stages shortly after Luis Sinisterra pulled one back for Bournemouth.
Guardiola has admitted that he has been left surprised by the ambition and commitment shown by his Man City players this season, telling Sky Sports: "This team surprise me a lot. After 11 games we are close, we will see after another weekend. Top of the league, Champions League we have done what we need to do.
"The way we are training, the dedication and commitment, we have incredible captains leading. In every training session they know they have to play good and they think 'I have to otherwise my mate is going to play' and that is the secret.
"They have the passion to play and let's continue, Tuesday then Sunday, we will see at the end what is our level."
Victory over Bournemouth has seen Man City move one point clear of Tottenham Hotspur at the top of the Premier League table, although Spurs can return to the summit if they beat London rivals Chelsea on Monday. body check tags ::
