Rival watch: Man City sweating over fitness of superstar forward ahead of Real Madrid showdown
· Yahoo Sports
As Real Madrid prepare for one of the biggest nights of their season against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League round of 16, unexpected news has arrived from England that could change the mood around the tie.
The spotlight is on Erling Haaland, who was surprisingly missing from City’s squad during their Premier League visit to Leeds United.
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His absence from the starting XI immediately raised questions. However, what truly shocked everyone was that he was not even named among the substitutes.
Given Haaland’s importance to Guardiola’s system, such a decision was always going to spark concern.
The striker has been central to City’s attacking threat, especially in high-pressure European nights.
With the Champions League clash against Madrid just around the corner, timing could not have been more delicate.
What’s the situation?
After the match, City manager Pep Guardiola offered clarity on the situation. Explaining the reason behind Haaland’s absence, Guardiola revealed,
Haaland missed the match against Leeds United. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
“Two days ago, in the final moments of training, he had some problems, a minor injury. It’s nothing serious, but he’s not ready for today,” he said, according to AS.
The manager’s words suggest the issue is not severe, yet the decision not to risk him shows clear caution.
Despite City still competing for domestic honours, Guardiola has chosen not to take any chances with his star forward.
Reports from England indicate that Haaland is expected to return for City’s next league fixture on Wednesday, March 4, when they host Nottingham Forest.
If Haaland misses that game as well, concern inside the Etihad Stadium will naturally grow.
More importantly, it would hand Real Madrid a psychological edge heading into the Champions League showdown.
For now, the situation remains one to monitor. But one thing is certain that Madrid will be paying very close attention.