Manchester City fans, grab your chamomile tea and strap in. It’s not just another Sunday stroll in Craven Cottage — it’s the final Premier League match of the 24/25 season, and Haaland could be the difference between Champions League football and a very awkward summer. With just one point needed to seal their European spot, City would love to avoid turning today into a suspense thriller. But as we’ve seen before, nothing’s ever that simple with Pep’s side when it matters most.
Is Haaland Ready? The Boots Say Yes. The Ankle’s Still Typing.
Let’s be honest — Erling Haaland isn’t exactly your friendly neighborhood comeback king. After missing seven matches due to an ankle injury, his return has been a slow waltz rather than a samba. He was more ghost than goal machine against Southampton, flatlined at Wembley, and only just started purring again in the 3-1 win over Bournemouth. The good news? He’s had three games to shake off the rust and remember that he’s not here to blend in — he’s here to break nets.
Haaland and the Not-So-Magnificent Comeback Arc
Haaland has proven he’s not a player who returns firing on all cylinders. More like… cautious jogging on two. But now, on the final day, with everything on the line, he’s expected to roar back into his terrifying best. Guardiola has publicly backed his No. 9, claiming he’s improving every day. That’s either encouragement or a Jedi mind trick — but either way, it’s working.
Erling to the Rescue? This time, he has to be.
Let’s not sugarcoat it: Haaland was signed for exactly this — moments like today. No more warm-ups, no more “getting into rhythm.” If City wants a ticket to next year’s Champions League, they need their Viking thunderbolt to strike. Today, Haaland doesn’t just need to play. He needs to perform.
And if he does? Well, Manchester might finally unclench.
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