Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola has clarified why Norwegian striker Erling Haaland did not find the back of the net in the recent Champions League match.
Guardiola told Goal:
One man? I saw six (surrounding Haaland). Three close to him and three in front of him. It’s difficult for everyone, for any player in the world playing in that position. They are physically stronger than we are. The only way was to have more players close to Erling. We had four there. I expected it.
The match at Etihad Stadium, which took place on September 18, ended in a 0-0 draw.
Sports portal Sky Italia reported that an annoyed Haaland, frustrated by constant marking from Italian defender Francesco Acerbi, offered his shirt after the game. According to Football Italia, Acerbi likely gestured with two fingers to imply that Haaland hadn’t scored in two matches against Inter Milan.
As reported by Defensa Central, Erling Haaland of Manchester City may leave the English club in the next offseason.