Manchester City are sweating over Erling Haaland’s fitness ahead of their Champions League match against AEK Athens, with Antoine Semenyo also sidelined by injury
Manchester City could be without star striker Erling Haaland for Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League clash against AEK Athens at the Etihad Stadium. The Norwegian forward suffered a foot injury during Saturday’s 3-2 Premier League victory over Ipswich Town.
Haaland scored twice against Ipswich to increase his league tally to eight goals this season. His impressive form has helped City maintain a perfect start to their league campaign, but the injury has raised concerns ahead of their European fixture.
City will aim to return to winning ways in the Champions League after suffering a 4-2 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain last week. However, Haaland’s availability remains uncertain as the club assesses his fitness.
Manager Enzo Maresca said the striker could still feature against AEK Athens, depending on how he responds to treatment and training.
“To replace Erling is always difficult, but we have some different options,” Maresca said. He added that the team’s approach would depend on the game plan if Haaland becomes unavailable.
Manchester City Consider Alternatives to Erling Haaland
Maresca said Haaland would be assessed after training on Monday. However, the forward was not present during the portion of the session open to the media.
The potential absence of Haaland presents a selection challenge for Manchester City, who have limited natural alternatives in the centre-forward position. The club allowed Divin Mubama to join Southampton on loan during the summer, leaving fewer established options to replace the Norwegian striker.
Phil Foden could provide one solution. The midfielder ended his goal drought on Saturday by scoring his first Premier League goal since December.
Maresca confirmed that Foden had previously played in the position and could be considered if required. However, he stressed that Haaland remained the first choice whenever fit.
Another possible option is Iliman Ndiaye, who played as a striker for Sheffield United during their promotion-winning 2022-23 campaign. The Senegal international scored 14 goals that season.
Rayan Cherki could also be considered for a false-nine role. Manchester City have previously used the Frenchman in that position, where his movement and technical ability can help create attacking opportunities.
Antoine Semenyo Injury Adds to City’s Concerns
The situation has become more complicated following Antoine Semenyo’s knee injury. The Ghanaian forward is expected to be sidelined for around eight weeks after sustaining a left knee problem during Saturday’s victory over Ipswich.
Semenyo came on as a substitute in the 77th minute but appeared to be struggling when the match ended. Initial concerns suggested the injury could be more serious, although subsequent scans provided some reassurance.
Maresca confirmed that the recovery period could extend to eight weeks. He said the priority was to ensure the forward recovered fully before returning to action.
Semenyo has made 10 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring two goals and providing three assists. His absence removes another attacking option as City prepare for a demanding run of fixtures.
Manchester City will now monitor Haaland’s condition before making a final decision on their starting lineup. If the striker fails to recover in time, Maresca may need to rely on a false nine or adjust the team’s attacking formation against AEK Athens.
With Haaland in outstanding scoring form and Semenyo facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, the fitness assessment could prove crucial to Manchester City’s Champions League preparations.
