Haaland to miss FA Cup semi-final clash against Chelsea

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland faces uncertainty ahead of his team’s FA Cup semi-final showdown against Chelsea on Saturday, following his substitution in the Champions League quarter-final match against Real Madrid.

Haaland, who was taken off late in the game against Real Madrid, reportedly requested the substitution due to a muscular issue, as confirmed by City manager Pep Guardiola.

Guardiola expressed uncertainty regarding Haaland’s availability for the crucial FA Cup fixture at Wembley, stating that the player’s condition would be assessed in the coming hours.

Guardiola also provided an update on midfielder Kevin de Bruyne, who also requested to be substituted during the Real Madrid match but is expected to be fit for the upcoming clash against Chelsea.

Despite the potential absence of key players, Guardiola emphasised the need for resilience and focus as City aim to bounce back from their Champions League disappointment.

With the Premier League title race still ongoing, Guardiola urged his team not to dwell on setbacks but to maintain their competitive edge.

In contrast, Chelsea, who are not contenders for the Premier League title this season, are looking to salvage their campaign by securing victory in the FA Cup following their Carabao Cup final loss to Liverpool earlier in the season.

Both teams will be determined to claim victory in what promises to be a fiercely contested FA Cup semi-final encounter at Wembley.