Real Madrid given potential Erling Haaland respite after huge LaLiga blow

Real Madrid suffered a new setback in their bid to win a second LaLiga title in succession on Saturday, when they were held to a 1-1 draw by Osasuna. Despite Kylian Mbappé’s early strike for Carlo Ancelotti’s team, Ante Budimir’s penalty secured a draw for the home team after Jude Bellingham had been shown a straight red card.

The result in Pamplona means Atlético Madrid and Barcelona both have the opportunity to move above Los Blancos at the top of LaLiga before the end of matchday 24.

While Madrid’s title hopes were taking a dent, however, their chances of progressing past Manchester City to the Champions League round of 16 were simultaneously given a potential boost by the news that Erling Haaland may not be available for Wednesday’s knockout phase playoff second leg in Spain.

Pep Guardiola’s team have been in dire form of late but roared back into top gear with a 4-0 home thrashing of Newcastle United on Saturday. While you might have expected Haaland to be among the goals, the Norwegian only managed a late assist for James McAtee, with January signing Omar Marmoush netting a hat-trick.

Erling Haaland injured: what happened and how serious is it?

However, there was potential bad news for Haaland and City in the closing moments as the striker was forced off with two minutes left to play. The 24-year-old pulled up after sprinting to press Newcastle’s Tino Livramento, requiring medical attention after grabbing his knee in pain.

He later limped off the field after applauding the City fans at full time, fueling fears he may not be fit for Wednesday’s crunch playoff clash.

City already have a mountain to climb after losing 3-2 in the home leg, which they had been 2-1 up in with four minutes left to play.

Will Erling Haaland play for Manchester City against Real Madrid?

There has been no word on the extent of Haaland’s injury just yet, but it will certainly be one to keep an eye on in the coming hours and days.

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