Manchester City’s Champions League dreams took a major hit as Real Madrid cruised past them in their knockout clash, winning comfortably with a dominant performance at the Bernabeu. A noticeable absentee from the game was star striker Erling Haaland, who was an unused substitute as City struggled to break down the Spanish giants’ defense.
Pep Guardiola later confirmed that Haaland was not fit to play, revealing that the Norwegian striker had discomfort following a knock against Newcastle United in their previous match.
Haaland’s Surprise Omission Against Real Madrid
As Manchester City prepared to face Real Madrid, many expected Erling Haaland to lead the line in what was a crucial second-leg clash. However, when the starting lineups were announced, Haaland was missing, and instead, City started without a recognized center-forward.
Without their leading goal scorer, City lacked their usual attacking threat, and Real Madrid took full advantage. Kylian Mbappe’s hat-trick ensured Madrid extended their aggregate lead, and a late consolation goal for City was not enough to salvage their European hopes.
Guardiola Explains Haaland’s Injury Situation
After the match, Guardiola explained the reason behind Haaland’s absence, confirming that the Norwegian had been struggling with knee discomfort after City’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United.
“Erling tried to train on Tuesday after the last action against Newcastle. With the images we have done, it was fine, but he had discomfort walking, for example, up the stairs,” Guardiola told reporters.
“We spoke, and he said he wasn’t ready, he didn’t feel good,” the City boss added.
This decisive conversation on the morning of the match led Guardiola to exclude Haaland from the squad, as the forward himself confirmed he was not fit enough to play.
How Haaland’s Absence Affected Manchester City
With Haaland unavailable, Guardiola was forced to adjust his attacking lineup, opting for a more fluid frontline without a traditional number nine. However, City’s attack struggled to create clear chances, and their usual dominance in front of goal was missing.
Even though Manchester City still had world-class players like Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden, and Bernardo Silva, they lacked the physical presence and finishing ability that Haaland brings to the team.
Real Madrid’s defense was rarely troubled, and the Spanish side capitalized on City’s attacking struggles, securing a convincing win to move into the Champions League last 16.
Jude Bellingham Reacts to Haaland’s Absence
Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham, who previously played with Haaland at Borussia Dortmund, expressed sympathy for his former teammate, acknowledging that he would have preferred to face a full-strength City side.
“You always want to play teams at their best, and obviously, I hope he’s not too bad. I saw the video, and I hope it’s not too bad, he’s a good mate of mine,” Bellingham told TNT Sports.
Despite Haaland’s absence, Bellingham praised his team’s performance, saying that Madrid handled the game well and successfully nullified City’s attacking threats.
Could Haaland Have Changed the Outcome?
With Real Madrid in control, many fans and analysts questioned whether Haaland’s presence would have made a difference. The Norwegian goal machine has been City’s main attacking weapon, scoring over 30 goals this season, and his ability to score in big games is well known.
Had Haaland been fit, City’s attack might have had more structure, and Madrid’s defense would have been forced to deal with his physicality and movement in the box.
However, without him, City lacked a focal point, and Madrid’s defenders comfortably handled City’s attacking attempts.
What’s Next for Haaland and Manchester City?
With their Champions League hopes now over, Manchester City must focus on their domestic ambitions. Guardiola will be hoping that Haaland recovers quickly as City still have important matches ahead, including Premier League title challenges and domestic cup competitions.
Haaland’s injury raises concerns about his fitness for upcoming fixtures, but Guardiola will likely be cautious to avoid further setbacks.
Manchester City fans will be hoping that their star striker returns to action soon, as his presence will be crucial in their quest for silverware this season.
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