Manchester City fans were shocked when the team’s lineup for the upcoming match against Real Madrid was announced, after it was devoid of the name of top scorer Erling Haaland.
The Norwegian international had participated in the first leg and scored two goals, and hopes were pinned on him to lead the English club in the second leg to make a comeback and advance to the round of 16 of the Champions League.
Guardiola revealed that the injury was the reason for Haaland’s exclusion from the squad, and not a technical decision.
The philosopher said that the effects of the injury that Haaland suffered against Newcastle last Saturday are still present, and continued, “Haaland is not ready enough.”
He also added, “He trained a little yesterday, but he spoke this morning and said he did not feel well, so we chose another player.”
Egyptian Omar Marmoush will be Haaland’s replacement in the striker position, hoping to repeat his great success against Newcastle when he scored a hat-trick in the first 33 minutes of the match.
