Pep Guardiola is hopeful of good news regarding Erling Haaland’s foot injury when Manchester City return from Wednesday’s final Champions League group game at Red Star Belgrade.

The striker missed City’s 2-1 win at Luton at the weekend because of the problem, yet Guardiola struck an optimistic note on the possibility of his top scorer, with 19 goals this season, being fit for Crystal Palace’s visit on Saturday.

“We will be back Thursday and we see how he feels,” the City manager said. “I cannot answer [about Saturday], I don’t know. The next press conference [on Friday] I can be more precise.”

The victory against Luton was City’s first in five Premier League games but Guardiola played down his side’s dip in form. “We lost one game in the last six or seven, and [it’s seemingly] a big disaster. We lost one game and drew the others but we performed really well. Because of what we won in the past we are used to it not happening much.

“In general, yes, it could be better but could be worse. A question of not good results but taking the positives. A good result like last weekend and yet we can still do better. We have to find the balance, not be so excited or be so depressed. It’s so long [the season].”

The holders are into the knockout stage as Group G winners and Guardiola is relishing the challenge of facing Red Star, the 1991 champions. “We’re happy to be here already qualified and to play against a historical club,” he said.

“I remember as a kid, how good they were with incredible players. I am happy to be here to defend our prestige and finish the group stage well. I expect an incredible atmosphere. The players will enjoy the atmosphere.”