Haaland injury concern grows after Norway substitution before Manchester City’s Liverpool clash

Manchester City are waiting to discover whether Erling Haaland will be fit for their meeting with Liverpool after the striker requested to come off during Norway’s 2-1 UEFA Nations League defeat by Portugal on Sunday.

Haaland appeared to signal to Norway manager Stale Solbakken that he wanted to be substituted shortly before the hour mark, when the score was 1-1. The 26-year-old remained on the pitch until the 67th minute, but appeared to limp as he left, prompting concern at club level.

The timing will worry Manchester City, who face Liverpool in a major Premier League fixture in the coming days. Haaland has been central to City’s strong start to the season, and his availability could prove important as Enzo Maresca’s side attempt to preserve their perfect record.

It is not yet known whether Haaland was suffering from an injury or was affected by fatigue or cramp. He has played more than five-and-a-half hours of international football across three countries in less than two weeks.

Solbakken attempted to ease concerns after the match, saying Haaland had always been expected to be replaced during the second half.

Despite that explanation, the sight of one of the world’s most physically imposing forwards leaving the field uncomfortably will prompt Manchester City to seek a full assessment when he returns to the club.

The club will then decide whether Haaland is able to play at Anfield. His departure from Norway duty may prove to have been a precaution, but City will be hoping it does not signal the beginning of another injury problem.

The forward has already been a key figure in Manchester City’s early Premier League campaign. With Liverpool next on the schedule, the club face an anxious wait before determining whether their leading striker can take part.