The Norwegian International Erling Haaland suffered a foot bone injury in the 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa on December 6. A subsequent failure in training means he has not started since.
City winners City remained on three fronts during Haaland’s absence, also lifting the FIFA Club World Cup with wins over Urawa Red Diamonds and Fluminense.
In total, Pep Guardiola’s side have won nine and drawn one of the 10 games Haaland has missed in all competitions.
Still, his return could be transformational for a team that has just welcomed his attacking ally Kevin De Bruyne back into the fold after a long absence.
Will Erling Haaland play for Man City against Burnley?
In his pre-match press conference ahead of the Burnley game, Pep Guardiola told reporters that Haaland is ready to be involved for the first time in 2024 when City welcome the struggling Clarets to the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, January 31.
“We have no injuries – Manuel [Akanji] is back, training well and can’t feel his knee. John [Stones] too. That’s the best news,” Pep Guardiola said.
“The important part of the season starts now: the FA Cup, the UEFA Champions League is around the corner and of course the Premier League – it’s important that we have everyone available.”
Pep Guardiola demanded a specific update on Haaland, adding: “Obviously he will be selected. [This is] the first time he is back. We have the whole squad, we are definitely stronger.
“Erling is an important player for us. Two months out but he feels good – we have training but he will probably be with us tomorrow.”
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