Pep Guardiola Takes Caution with Erling Haaland’s Fitness Ahead of New Season
Manchester City’s star striker, Erling Haaland, was substituted at half-time in the team’s friendly match against Barcelona, sparking concerns about his fitness ahead of the new season. City’s manager, Pep Guardiola, has revealed that Haaland is struggling with minor muscle issues and is being closely monitored to avoid any risks.
Haaland has only managed 45 minutes in each of his last two matches in pre-season, with Guardiola opting to prioritize his fitness over playing time. The Norwegian striker’s absence would be a significant blow to City’s chances, and Guardiola is taking a cautious approach to ensure Haaland is fully fit for the upcoming season.
City face a crucial match against Manchester United in the Community Shield next week, followed by their Premier League opener against Chelsea. Guardiola is aware of the importance of having a fully fit Haaland available for these matches, and is managing his playing time accordingly.
“Erling is not comfortable,” Guardiola said. “We don’t want to take risks. But sooner or later, he has to take a step with training and minutes. The season is there, around the corner. He has niggles, muscular, we don’t want to take a risk and lose him for three weeks or a month. That would be a problem.”
Erling Haaland has only managed 45 minutes in each of his last two matches in pre-season
Pep Guardiola has revealed that the Norweigan striker is suffering from muscular ‘niggles’
Haaland thought he’d scored during the 2-2 draw with Barca, only for the linesman to insist the Norwegian’s effort had not crossed the line. The move was manufactured by the impressive Oscar Bobb, who could be an option through the middle if Haaland was to be missing for a period of time.
Guardiola is aware of the importance of having a fully fit squad available for the upcoming season, and is taking a cautious approach to ensure his players are ready for the challenges ahead.
“He didn’t feel good, and that’s why he didn’t play the second half,” Guardiola added. “Sixty-seventy per cent of the squad are on holiday. That’s why we need the players. At the same time, we have alternatives, Oscar makes an incredible job again. We’re pleased with many things.”
