MANCHESTER, England — Erling Haaland has raised concerns for Manchester City after manager Pep Guardiola disclosed that the striker requested a substitution during the 3-0 victory against Fulham.
Haaland netted the third goal for City, marking his first Premier League goal from open play in 2026.
However, following a tough tackle from Fulham defender Joachim Anderson leading up to City’s second goal, the Norwegian did not return for the second half.
Guardiola attributed the situation to “niggles,” mentioning that it was Haaland’s choice to exit the match.
“[He had] some issues, he felt uncomfortable, it was 3-0, so of course,” Guardiola stated.
“I haven’t spoken with the medical staff, so I can’t say exactly what it is. It might just be fatigue or something similar.
“He mentioned ‘I don’t feel comfortable,’ and with a 3-0 lead and a busy schedule ahead, we had to use common sense.”
When pressed for more details on Haaland’s condition, Guardiola suggested that the striker might be struggling with the demands of a packed schedule after beginning his season during the FIFA Club World Cup in June.
The City manager referred to Marc Cucurella while discussing Haaland, mentioning that the Chelsea defender, who was part of the Club World Cup-winning team, also sustained an injury during Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Leeds United on Tuesday.
“The reason? It’s a lot of matches,” Guardiola commented. “Cucurella is injured, right? You understand why, don’t you?”