Man United vs Man City: Will Erling Haaland Play in Today's Manchester Derby?

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Manchester City are set to visit Old Trafford for a Premier League clash against their archrival Manchester United on Sunday (April 6). Although they hold a stronger position than United in the league standings, injuries to multiple key players remain a pressing concern for the reigning champions.

With eight league matches left, Pep Guardiola’s side is pushing to secure a top-four finish. City currently sit fifth with 51 points—one behind Chelsea and level with Aston Villa.

Man United vs Man City: Is Erling Haaland Playing Today Against United?

Manchester City’s star striker, Erling Haaland, suffered an ankle injury in their FA Cup quarter-final match against Bournemouth on (March 30). The injury took place in the second half after a challenge from Bournemouth’s Lewis Cook. Although Haaland tried to stay on the field, he was substituted shortly after due to discomfort.

After the match, he was seen leaving on crutches and wearing a protective boot. As a consequence, Erling Haaland will miss today’s Premier League fixture against Manchester United.

So far this season, Haaland has played 26 Premier League games, netting 21 goals and delivering 3 assists, which include two hat-tricks. In his absence, Manchester City will count on other forwards—especially January signing Omar Marmoush—who has proven effective by scoring key goals in recent matches, stepping up during this vital phase.

Coach Pep Guardiola may also tweak his tactical setup to make up for the short-term loss of his main striker. Marmoush found the net during the midweek victory over Leicester and is expected to lead the line again as Haaland continues to recover.

When Might Erling Haaland Return for Manchester City?

City are optimistic that Haaland will return in time for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, scheduled to begin in June. Guardiola has stated that Haaland is projected to be out for five to seven weeks, ruling him out for most of the remaining Premier League games but aiming for a return ahead of the season’s end and the Club World Cup. He said, “They (the doctors) told me between five to seven weeks. So hopefully the end of the season and by the Club World Cup he will be ready,”

A five-week layoff would have Haaland ready for City’s trip to Southampton on May 10. If it takes seven weeks, he could miss the FA Cup final on May 17 (if City advance), with a possible return in the league’s final round at Fulham on May 25. City are scheduled to travel to their training base in Florida ahead of the Club World Cup on June 12. Their opening match is against Wydad AC of Morocco in Philadelphia on June 18. The Norwegian striker’s recovery will be vital for City’s progress in the CWC.