Manchester City have received encouraging news regarding Erling Haaland’s fitness after the striker was left unused on the bench during their commanding 5-1 victory over AEK Athens. According to a report published by the Evening Standard on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the Norwegian forward could be available to return to the starting line-up for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Aston Villa.

Haaland’s absence from the starting team against AEK raised questions about his physical condition after he reportedly picked up a knock during City’s 3-2 victory over Ipswich Town at the weekend. The striker scored twice in that encounter, but the subsequent fitness concern prompted the club to exercise caution over his involvement in the Champions League fixture.

The latest update suggests that the injury is not considered serious enough to rule him out of the upcoming league match. City manager Enzo Maresca reportedly indicated that Haaland could start against Aston Villa, offering reassurance to supporters ahead of the important contest.

“He’s okay to start on Saturday,” Maresca was quoted as saying, according to the report.

Despite being included among the substitutes against AEK, Haaland did not feature as City delivered an impressive attacking performance. His absence appeared to be part of a cautious approach to managing his condition rather than an indication that he would face an extended spell on the sidelines.

However, his availability for Saturday will ultimately depend on how he responds in the lead-up to the match and the medical staff’s assessment of his fitness. City are unlikely to take unnecessary risks with their leading goalscorer, particularly with a demanding schedule ahead.

The victory over AEK also demonstrated that the Premier League champions possess considerable attacking depth. Phil Foden produced an outstanding display by scoring a hat-trick, while Elliot Anderson and Rayan Cherki also registered goals in the emphatic win.

Teenager Floyd Samba reportedly operated as the team’s central attacking option, providing an alternative in Haaland’s absence. His involvement allowed City to maintain their attacking threat without relying on their prolific Norwegian striker.

The result offered Maresca an opportunity to manage Haaland’s workload while preserving the team’s performance level. With City firmly in control, there was little need to introduce the forward and risk placing additional physical demands on him.

Haaland’s potential return would provide a significant boost ahead of the Aston Villa fixture. Nevertheless, City’s priority will be ensuring that he is sufficiently fit to contribute without aggravating the knock he sustained against Ipswich.