While the motto among professionals is to never celebrate injuries, football is a game played, and managed by humans. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is a perfect example of what it means to be a human in such a role, as he’s not shy from showing his emotions on the sideline.
Those who have watched the All or Nothing documentary will know that Arteta loves to study other teams and other players. It’s the reason why he’s tactically one of the best in the world right now, is his ability to adapt his style of play based on that of the opposition.
Therefore, he’ll be keeping the keenest of eyes on the team challenging Arsenal for the title and indeed a team he knows well, Manchester City.
The news among the Man City camp at the moment is the unfortunate injury to Erling Haaland. According to the Mirror, the Norwegian talisman has had to leave the Norway camp due to a groin injury he’s picked up. This could be a major blow to Manchester City, but a huge boost to Arsenal’s title hopes.
Haaland has set the world alight with his superb goal scoring ability. He’s certainly on track to beat the Premier League goal scoring record, if his groin injury isn’t too serious.
In my opinion, this is just a stunt played by Pep Guardiola to maximise his chances. I can’t blame him either as international breaks falling right in the middle of a title race are annoying, especially since the season has already been halted enough with the World Cup break in the middle of it.
Although, if Haaland’s injury is a serious one, it’ll be a big blow to City’s end of season. Julian Alvarez is the best back up option in the league (fact), but he’s nowhere near Haaland (another fact).
Do you think Erling Haaland’s injury is of concern to Pep?