Pep Guardiola gives Erling Haaland injury update ahead of Man City vs Newcastle | Football
TL;DR – Two-minute read
Erling Haaland recovered from injury ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League match against Newcastle United on 18 February 2026, as confirmed by Pep Guardiola. Haaland missed the previous match, but Guardiola announced he was fully fit, alongside Savinho, while Jeremy Doku remained sidelined. City aimed to close the gap on Arsenal, who were in derby action against Tottenham.
Erling Haaland is fully fit ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League clash with Newcastle United on Saturday. The striker was forced off in City’s previous league match against Fulham on 11 February and missed the FA Cup victory over Salford City last weekend. This development is significant as City aim to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal.
Pep Guardiola, the Manchester City manager, confirmed Haaland’s recovery during a press conference. He also stated that Savinho is ready to return, while Jeremy Doku remains unavailable. Haaland has scored 29 goals in 37 appearances this season, although he has faced a dip in form, netting only once in the first six league matches of 2026.
Guardiola highlighted the importance of the upcoming match, noting that winning could reduce City’s deficit to Arsenal to just two points, especially after Arsenal dropped points against Wolves during the week. City have a game in hand, adding further importance to their fixture at the Etihad Stadium.
Following the match against Newcastle, City will prepare for their upcoming League Cup final against Arsenal on 23 March. Guardiola emphasised his immediate focus on Newcastle, stating, “Newcastle is my only concern,” and reiterated that many changes can take place before the season concludes.