- Erling Haaland was replaced at the break during Manchester City’s exhibition match against Barcelona.
- Pep Guardiola is set to manage Haaland’s game time as the new season approaches.
- City will compete against fierce rivals Manchester United in the Community Shield next week.
Pep Guardiola is carefully monitoring Erling Haaland’s playing time as Manchester City expresses concerns regarding their star striker’s physical condition ahead of the upcoming season.
In their last two friendlies against AC Milan and Barcelona, Haaland was taken off at halftime, while other players received extended playing time.
City will face Manchester United in the Community Shield next Saturday, followed by the start of their Premier League title defense against Chelsea.
‘Erling isn’t feeling great,’ Guardiola mentioned. ‘We want to avoid taking unnecessary risks. Yet, at some point, he must increase his training and minutes.’
‘The new season is nearly upon us. He has some muscular issues, and we prefer not to take chances that could sideline him for three weeks or more, which would be problematic.’
Erling Haaland has only managed 45 minutes in each of his last two matches in pre-season
Pep Guardiola has revealed that the Norwegian striker is suffering from muscular ‘niggles’
During the 2-2 draw with Barcelona, Haaland believed he had scored, but the linesman ruled that his shot had not crossed the line.
The chance was created by the impressive Oscar Bobb, who could serve as an option in the center if Haaland were to be sidelined for any duration. Julian Alvarez, who is pondering his future, is currently participating in the Olympics with Argentina.
‘He didn’t feel well, which is why he did not play in the second half,’ Guardiola reiterated.
‘Sixty to seventy percent of the squad are on vacation. That’s why we need the available players. At the same time, we have alternatives; Oscar performed remarkably once again. We are pleased with several aspects.’
