Erling Haaland injury scare casts shadow over Man City's

Erling Haaland is a major injury concern for Manchester City ahead of their Premier League trip to Liverpool after limping off while playing for Norway. The striker signalled to the bench and was substituted in the 67th minute of Norway's 2-1 Nations League defeat in Portugal on Sunday, October 4. The nature and severity of the issue remain unconfirmed, casting immediate doubt over his availability for the key fixture at Anfield on October 11.

City manager Enzo Maresca will be anxiously awaiting updates on his star forward. Haaland had started and played every minute of Norway's three previous Nations League matches in the international break, scoring three goals. His premature exit in Porto, where he gestured to be replaced, is the only detail available. The club has not received an official diagnosis, but the timing could not be worse with a perfect league record on the line.

The injury overshadowed a competitive Nations League contest. Norway took a surprise lead in the 36th minute through a spectacular dipping half-volley from defender Kristoffer Ajer. Portugal's response was swift and stunning, with João Cancelo smashing an equaliser from the edge of the box just two minutes later. The winner came from Gonçalo Ramos in the 79th minute, after Haaland had departed. Portugal finished with ten men after Francisco Conceição was sent off late on. The victory secured Portugal's place in the quarter-finals, while Norway remain bottom of Group A4.

Haaland's potential absence is a massive blow for a City side already missing Phil Foden through suspension. The Norwegian has been in formidable form, netting seven goals in seven games across all competitions this season. His goals have been central to City's flawless start of five wins from five in the Premier League. Facing Liverpool at Anfield is the toughest test of the campaign so far, and Maresca's tactical plans now hinge on a fitness update. The club's injury situation is a key factor fans will monitor on our [injuries](/injuries) page.

The injury scare compounds a difficult period for Manchester City off the pitch. The club was recently found guilty of numerous breaches of Premier League financial rules, a verdict it is appealing. This has sparked broader discussion about the legacy of the club's success and the position of players who achieved it. While the charges relate to periods before many current players, including Haaland, joined, the ongoing saga creates an undeniable cloud. Some commentators argue that players of integrity might question their future at a club facing such serious allegations, though there is no indication Haaland is considering an exit.

• KEY TAKEAWAYS: Haaland is an injury doubt after asking to be substituted in the 67th minute for Norway on October 4. His seven goals this season have driven Manchester City's perfect Premier League start. City face Liverpool at Anfield on October 11 already without the suspended Phil Foden.