Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has openly raised concerns over the fitness of his star striker, Erling Haaland, revealing that the Norwegian is currently experiencing extreme fatigue. Despite this, Haaland is set to remain a central figure in City’s lineup as the team heads to Bodo/Glimt for a crucial UEFA Champions League fixture on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.
The Spanish tactician had already flagged Haaland’s exhaustion last week, but the upcoming match schedule leaves little room for rest. Guardiola’s admission comes after City’s disappointing 0-2 defeat against Manchester United at Old Trafford in the recent Manchester Derby, where Haaland was notably below his usual standards.
Haaland Struggles Against Manchester United
During the derby, Haaland’s performance was visibly affected by fatigue. At halftime, he limped toward the tunnel after receiving treatment for a collision with Harry Maguire. Despite being on the pitch for 80 minutes, Haaland failed to make a significant impact, highlighting both the physical and mental toll on City’s forward line.
Guardiola acknowledged that the team lacks adequate alternatives upfront. The absence of Omar Marmoush, who is away on international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, leaves City with limited attacking options. New signing Antoine Semenyo is also unavailable for the Bodo/Glimt trip, further narrowing the rotation possibilities.
Haaland’s Role Remains Indispensable
Asked if Marmoush would be traveling to Norway, Guardiola was straightforward: “No, I don’t think so. I don’t know when Omar will return, and Erling will play. We need Erling; we need everyone.”
The 55-year-old coach emphasized Haaland’s critical importance to the team: “Erling is very important for us. We are lucky to have him and all that he has contributed so far.” Guardiola hinted that Haaland may only get a break in upcoming fixtures against Wolves or Galatasaray, once Marmoush becomes available as a backup.
City’s congested fixture list has further complicated rotation. Guardiola stressed that the well-being of his squad goes beyond physical recovery. “We have to fly to Norway and see how they recover, not only physically but also mentally. I can feel how they are doing,” he said.
“Last season, we managed this schedule, and we’re doing the same this season. We have many important matches every three or four days,” Guardiola added.
Guardiola Refuses to Blame Haaland or Marmoush for Results
Despite Haaland’s fatigue and Marmoush’s absence, Guardiola rejected using these as excuses for City’s defeat to Manchester United.
“Omar is an exceptional player. He moves well, full of energy,” Guardiola noted.
“But it would be wrong to say that our results today—or previously—are because Omar isn’t here. That wouldn’t be fair to him, to the team, or to all the players who work hard every day.”
This statement reassures fans that Guardiola maintains accountability while highlighting the strain his squad faces under the demanding schedule.
The Challenge of a Packed Schedule
City’s squad faces an intense January, with fixtures coming thick and fast. Guardiola has consistently rotated players when possible, but the lack of depth in attack places Haaland at the center of City’s offensive strategy.
The Norwegian striker’s workload is particularly high due to his role as the primary goal-scoring outlet. Even as fatigue sets in, Guardiola is clear that Haaland’s presence on the field is indispensable for maintaining City’s competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions.
Strategic Implications for Manchester City
Haaland’s current condition raises strategic questions for Guardiola. While physical rest is necessary to avoid long-term injuries, the immediate priorities—Champions League progression and Premier League dominance—require the team’s talisman to remain on the pitch.
City’s medical and coaching staff will need to carefully monitor Haaland’s condition in the coming days to balance performance with recovery. Guardiola’s public acknowledgment of the situation also signals to fans the complexity of squad management under a congested calendar.
Looking Ahead: Haaland’s Potential Break
It appears likely that Haaland’s first rest period may come against Wolves or in a European fixture where rotation is possible. Until then, Guardiola has made it clear: the Norwegian will remain a central figure in Manchester City’s quest for domestic and continental glory.
This delicate balance—relying on a fatigued star while managing squad depth—demonstrates Guardiola’s ongoing challenge. City fans are left hoping that Haaland’s resilience will carry the team through this demanding period without compromising his long-term fitness or effectiveness.
ALSO READ :
