### Erling Haaland's Injury Concerns and Manchester City's Upcoming Clash with Tottenham - Erling Haaland, Manchester City's star striker, has been dealing with a knee injury that has sidelined him for crucial matches against Liverpool and Real Madrid. His absence has raised concerns about Manchester City's attacking capabilities, especially as they prepare for a pivotal Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur. Despite his injury, Haaland has returned to training and is being assessed for his fitness ahead of the game [https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/erling-haaland-opens-up-horrible-31093114][https://www.si.com/soccer/manchester-city-predicted-lineup-vs-tottenham-hotspur-premier-league-2-26-25]. ### Structure of the Analysis 1. **Current Injury Status of Erling Haaland** - Haaland has missed the last two matches due to a knee injury. - Pep Guardiola is hopeful about his return but remains uncertain [https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/mancity-tottenham-haaland-injury-update-34746514]. 2. **Impact on Manchester City** - City has struggled offensively in Haaland's absence, losing key matches. - The team is looking to regain form against Tottenham, who have recently improved their performance [https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/man-city-xi-vs-tottenham-haaland-injury-latest-predicted-lineup-confirmed-team-news-premier-league-2025-today-b1212848.html]. 3. **Tottenham's Recent Form** - Tottenham has won their last three matches and is looking to extend this streak. - The team has benefitted from the return of key players from injury, enhancing their chances against City [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/tottenham_predicted_lineup_vs_manchester_city_for_february_26/s1_17204_41819780]. 4. **Match Preview and Predictions** - The upcoming match is crucial for both teams, with City aiming to solidify their position in the top four. - Predictions suggest a competitive game, with Tottenham having the upper hand based on recent performances [https://www.90min.com/tottenham-vs-manchester-city-preview-predictions-lineups-26-2-25]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Injury Updates:** - Haaland has been a fitness doubt for the last two matches, missing significant opportunities for City [https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/sport/football/premier-league/erling-haaland-still-an-injury-doubt-as-manchester-city-travel-to-tottenham/a1955075090.html]. - **Team Performance:** - Manchester City has lost back-to-back games without Haaland, highlighting his importance to the squad [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/soccer/news/tottenham-vs-man-city-lineups-starting-11-team-news-injuries/f94637f1c9076f0561469197]. - **Tottenham's Recent Wins:** - Tottenham has recorded impressive victories, including a 4-1 win over Ipswich, showcasing their attacking prowess [https://www.yardbarker.com/soccer/articles/great_dilemma_postecoglou_backed_to_drop_tottenham_star_from_playing_xi_vs_manchester_city/s1_17451_41820098]. ### Conclusion: Key Takeaways 1. **Haaland's Fitness is Critical:** - His return could significantly impact Manchester City's performance against Tottenham. 2. **City's Recent Struggles:** - The team has faced challenges without their star striker, losing crucial matches that could affect their league standing. 3. **Tottenham's Momentum:** - With a winning streak and key players returning, Tottenham poses a serious threat to City. 4. **Upcoming Match Significance:** - The clash on February 26 is pivotal for both teams, with City needing a win to maintain their top-four aspirations while Tottenham aims to continue their resurgence [https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6158401/2025/02/25/erling-haaland-injury-man-city-team-news].