MANCHESTER, England -- Manchester City were left with an injury concern over Erling Haaland after Pep Guardiola confirmed the striker requested to be substituted during their 3-0 victory against Fulham.
Haaland netted City’s third goal, marking his first Premier League strike from open play in 2026.
However, following a strong challenge from Fulham defender Joachim Anderson in the build-up to City’s second goal, the Norwegian forward did not return to the pitch for the second half.
Guardiola described the issue as minor “discomfort” and explained that the decision to withdraw Haaland came from the player himself.
“He had some issues, he didn’t feel right, and it was already 3-0,” Guardiola said.
“I haven’t spoken with the medical staff, so I don’t know exactly what it is. Maybe just tiredness or something else.
“He said, ‘I don’t feel comfortable,’ and with the scoreline and the number of matches we have, plus having Omar [Marmoush], it was common sense.”
When asked further about the nature of the problem, Guardiola suggested Haaland may be feeling the effects of a packed schedule after beginning his campaign at the FIFA Club World Cup in June.
The City manager also mentioned Marc Cucurella while discussing Haaland, pointing to the Chelsea defender’s injury in their 2-2 draw with Leeds United on Tuesday after featuring in the Club World Cup-winning side.
“What’s the reason? Too many games,” Guardiola said. “Cucurella is injured, right? You know why, don’t you?”
