VIDEO: Major scare for Man City as Erling Haaland is spotted limping and puffing out cheeks in frustration during Norway training session

Video footage widely circulating on social media on Tuesday showed Haaland first bent over feeling towards what appeared to be his right leg. He then hobbled away in visible discomfort, shaking his head and putting both hands on his knees as he puffed out his cheeks.

City boss Pep Guardiola seemed to warn Norway about using Haaland carefully during this international break after the forward came off shortly before the end of the FA Cup quarter-final win over Newcastle at the weekend. "They know they are friendly games and they have to handle it wisely. Hopefully they can do it," he said, referring to upcoming fixtures against Czech Republic and Slovakia. Haaland had already missed 10 games across all competitions for City in December and January due to a foot injury.

Although Norway are keen to pick up wins in those pair of friendlies, there is little consequence to them if Haaland misses out. His short-term fitness is of far greater importance to Manchester City given the crucial stage of the season they are now entering. City will face Arsenal when Premier League football resumes on March 31, with the Gunners currently ahead in the table by a point and Liverpool also sandwiched between them. Only 10 games remain. The first leg of their Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid at the Bernabeu is also coming into view on April 9.