‘Haaland is uncomfortable’: Guardiola raises alarm on star forward fitness

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola revealed a concerning Erling Haaland fitness update after his side’s friendly against FC Barcelona on Tuesday.

The Premier League champion played an intense friendly game against Barcelona on Tuesday night. Haaland started for Man City but was taken off at half-time as his team battled back from behind to draw 2-2.

Speaking post-match, Guardiola admitted Haaland is not feeling “comfortable” so they “don’t want to take risks”.

“Erling is not comfortable. We don’t want to take risks. But sooner or later he has to take a step with training and minutes,” Guardiola said.

“The season is there, around the corner. He has niggles, muscular, we don’t want to take a risk and lose him for three weeks or a month. That would be a problem.

“He didn’t feel good and that’s why he didn’t play the second half. Sixty-seventy percent of the squad are on holiday. That’s why we need the players.

“At the same time, we have alternatives, Oscar [Bobb] makes an incredible job again. We’re pleased with many things.”

Haaland has further established himself as one of the best strikers in the world during his time at Man City, scoring 90 goals in his 98 appearances across all competitions.

Man City fans will be hoping Haaland is fit for the new season as the citizens face another tough competition from the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool, Man United and Chelsea.