'Big knock' - Pep Guardiola explains Erling Haaland substitution in Man City win
manchestereveningnews.co.ukPep Guardiola said Manchester City have to take care of Erling Haaland even if it means being less confident on the pitch. Haaland made the game safe with a composed finish after rounding the goalkeeper just shy of the hour mark in their Champions League win over Slovan Bratislava, and was instantly withdrawn.
The No.9 was involved in a lengthy chat with Guardiola after the game as the pair walked off the pitch together deep in discussion.
City's manager would like to keep Haaland on for every minute of every game, but has to think about the relentless schedule.
With the Norwegian having been in a physical battle at St James' Park at the weekend, he decided enough was enough in Slovakia. READ MORE: City player ratings vs Slovan Bratislava as Lewis shines and Foden sends message READ MORE: Man City feel Pep Guardiola wrath but Haaland brought calm amid chaotic 'holiday' "Erling is never disappointed with his manager!" Guardiola started. "As a manager I am more secure and more happy when Erling is on the pitch. "I will keep him on the pitch all the time but with 0-3 the game was almost over and with this amount of games we have to take care of him.
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