Haaland back in training ahead of return in Madrid

However, the 25-year-old was pictured back on the grass at the City Football Academy before City left for the Spanish capital, where they face Real on Wednesday night.

“I didn’t think to let him play [at Newcastle] and I prefer him training to make a rhythm," said Guardiola when explaining the forward's absence at St James' Park.

“After injury, when he drops, he always struggles a little bit to have that real, real pace.”

Meanwhile, there was more good news for City with Mateo Kovacic also spotted back in training.

The midfielder has made only two appearances this term due to an ankle injury, but Guardiola hopes he will feature before the end of the season.