Erling Haaland is stepping up his preparation ahead of Manchester City’s crucial UEFA Champions League showdown with Real Madrid after spending the weekend training to regain his sharpness.
The Norwegian striker did not feature in City’s recent FA Cup fifth-round victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park, with manager Pep Guardiola opting to rotate his squad and prioritise Haaland’s recovery.
It marked the second time in three matches that the prolific forward had been absent after also missing the previous weekend’s Premier League win against Leeds United due to a minor knock.
Guardiola explained that the decision was aimed at helping Haaland regain his explosive pace before the high-stakes trip to Spain.
“I didn’t think to let him play and I prefer him training to make a rhythm,” said Guardiola.
“After injury, when he drops, he always struggles a little bit to have that real, real pace.”
Attention now turns to the first leg of the Champions League last-16 clash at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, where City will face Madrid for the second time this season.
With a demanding run of fixtures ahead, City will hope Haaland’s return can provide a major boost as they prepare for another high-profile European battle in Madrid.
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