According to a report by Metro on Wednesday October 21, 2026, Manchester City have received a positive update on Erling Haaland’s fitness after the striker was left on the bench for their 5-1 Champions League victory over AEK Athens.

The Norway international was an unused substitute on Tuesday night after reportedly picking up a knock during City’s 3-2 Premier League win over Ipswich Town, in which he scored twice.

Despite concerns over his condition, City’s manager, Enzo Maresca, indicated that Haaland would be available to start against Aston Villa when the Premier League resumes on Saturday.

“He’s okay to start on Saturday,” Maresca said after the Champions League victory, suggesting that the decision to leave the striker out was largely precautionary.

City enjoyed an impressive evening against AEK Athens, with Phil Foden scoring a hat-trick to help secure a comfortable win. The result meant Maresca had little reason to risk introducing Haaland, particularly with another important fixture approaching.