Haaland Faces Fitness Test Amid Injury Concerns for Manchester CityHaaland Faces Fitness Test Amid Injury Concerns for Manchester City Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is set to undergo a fitness test ahead of the team’s crucial Premier League clash against Arsenal on Wednesday, January 8. The Norwegian has emerged as a key figure for the Citizens since arriving from Borussia Dortmund in the summer, scoring 21 goals in 23 appearances across all competitions. However, Haaland has been hampered by a foot injury in recent weeks, missing Manchester City’s last two matches against Leeds United and Everton. Manager Pep Guardiola provided an update on the striker’s fitness during a press conference on Tuesday, January 7. “Haaland has had a knock on his foot for the last few days,” Guardiola said. “We’re going to test him this afternoon to see if he’s available for tomorrow’s game.” Guardiola also acknowledged that the injury is a concern for Manchester City, particularly given the importance of the upcoming fixture against Arsenal. “Of course, it’s a worry when your best player is not available,” he admitted. “But we have other players who can step up and fill his void. We’ll have to wait and see what the fitness test reveals.” If Haaland is ruled out, Julian Alvarez is likely to lead the line for Manchester City against Arsenal. The Argentine has impressed in Haaland’s absence, scoring in each of the team’s last two matches. Manchester City currently sit five points behind Arsenal in the Premier League table, although they have a game in hand. A victory over the league leaders on Wednesday would close the gap and boost the Citizens’ title hopes. The fitness test for Haaland will be crucial in determining whether he can feature in the pivotal encounter. His availability would be a major boost for Manchester City as they look to make a statement against their title rivals.