Haaland's injury threatens Manchester City's FA Cup title hopes

Erling Haaland (24, Manchester City) sustained an injury to his left ankle, raising the possibility that he could miss the rest of the season.

Manchester City announced on its official website on the 1st (Korean time) that "Haaland injured his left ankle during the quarterfinal of the 2024-2025 Football Association (FA) Cup against Bournemouth. Initial examinations were conducted in Manchester, and further assessments will be made through a specialist to determine the extent of the injury."

Haaland fell down in the 57th minute during a contest with Lewis Cook in the FA Cup quarterfinal against Bournemouth at Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth, England, on the 31st of last month, when his left ankle twisted. He received treatment immediately and returned to play, but due to severe pain, he was eventually substituted.

After the match, Haaland left the field with his left ankle in a cast and using crutches.

Manchester City noted that "diagnoses regarding the injury status are ongoing" and expressed hope that "Haaland will return for the remaining league schedule this season and the FIFA Club World Cup in July." Local media are raising concerns about the possibility of a prolonged recovery for Haaland, indicating that missing the season may be unavoidable.

This injury news is a significant blow for Manchester City. Haaland has scored 21 goals in the Premier League this season, ranking second in scoring behind Mohamed Salah (Liverpool, 27 goals). Overall, he has scored 30 goals in 40 matches across all competitions (21 in the league, 8 in the UEFA Champions League, and 1 in the FA Cup) and has been pivotal to the team's offense.

Manchester City currently ranks 5th in the league with 48 points. To secure a UEFA Champions League spot for next season (1st - 4th), they must surpass Chelsea, which has 49 points. In this context, Haaland's absence will undoubtedly be felt.

Currently, Manchester City has been eliminated from both the UEFA Champions League and the Carabao Cup. Essentially, the only remaining opportunity for a title this season is the FA Cup. However, if Haaland's recovery is delayed, the FA Cup semifinal against Nottingham Forest, scheduled for late April, could become a variable.

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