Manchester City has confirmed that star forward Erling Haaland will be sidelined for an extended period following an ankle injury sustained during the team’s FA Cup quarterfinal victory.

Haaland, who had just netted his 30th goal of the season in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Bournemouth, suffered the injury in a challenge from midfielder Lewis Cook. Subsequent scans on Monday revealed enough concern for City to send him to a specialist to determine the full extent of the damage.

While the club has not provided a specific recovery timeline, they have stated that Haaland is expected to return before the end of the season. However, his absence comes at a crucial time for City, which is battling to secure a Champions League qualification spot. Currently sitting fifth in the Premier League—outside the automatic top-four places—with nine matches remaining, the team will need to maintain strong performances in his absence.

In addition to the league campaign, City also faces an important FA Cup semifinal clash against Nottingham Forest at Wembley on April 26. The club remains hopeful that Haaland will play a role in the latter part of the season, including the FIFA Club World Cup this summer.

"Assessment remains ongoing to ascertain a full prognosis," City said in an official statement. "The expectation is that Erling will be fit in time to play a further part in the remainder of this season."

With Haaland being a crucial component of City’s attacking force, his injury presents a major challenge for manager Pep Guardiola as the team pushes for a strong finish in multiple competitions.