Pep Guardiola does not allow Haaland to rest

Pep Guardiola confirms he is unable to let Erling Haaland take time off, despite the striker from Norway having to play continuously for Manchester City and his national side in this tough season.

Coach Pep Guardiola admits he is “very sorry,” but at this moment Manchester City simply cannot afford to rest Erling Haaland, even though the Norwegian forward is going through one of the longest and toughest seasons of his career.

So far, Haaland has been the player with the most appearances for Man City, and he has also played full matches in all four World Cup qualifying games for Norway since June. Except for the Carabao Cup win against Huddersfield, the 24-year-old striker has hardly had a single minute off for the “Citizens.” He is expected to get some rest when Man City faces Swansea in the fourth round of the League Cup.

Haaland’s season began in June at the Club World Cup, and if Norway qualifies for the 2026 World Cup, his campaign could extend until next summer, meaning over 13 months of continuous play with a possible total of more than 70 matches.

Although Norway’s head coach Stale Solbakken wishes his player could have more rest, Pep Guardiola insists he cannot do that while Man City is fiercely competing in both the Premier League and the Champions League.

Pep Guardiola said: “I am very sorry to Solbakken, but I cannot consider giving Haaland a break right now. Only if we secure the title with a 10-point lead and 10 games remaining, then he can rest. For now, Haaland is healthy, energetic, and always ready to play.”

The Spanish coach also acknowledged that the title race this year leaves no room for mistakes for Man City, as Arsenal and Liverpool are both maintaining consistent performances. “I don’t think Arsenal will drop many points. Liverpool, although they recently lost a few matches, remain very strong opponents. Both teams will lose very few points, so we must stay close,” Pep emphasized.

With his devastating scoring form and excellent fitness, Haaland continues to be Man City’s biggest hope in defending their crown, even if that means he cannot have a real break yet.