Guardiola’s Bench Reveal: Haaland Out, Marmoush In — The Quiet Fatigue Strategy Unfolds
24 January 2026
Omar Marmoush emerges as the biggest beneficiary of Guardiola's decision.
Team News
A British newspaper revealed the reason why Norwegian Erling Haaland was absent from Manchester City's starting XI against Wolverhampton.
Manchester City host Wolverhampton at the Etihad on Saturday, in a Premier League matchweek 23.
Starting XI
City's substitutes included Haaland, Phil Foden, and Jeremy Doku.
According to the British outlet Metro, Guardiola decided to rest Haaland due to fatigue concerns.
Pep named Marmoush, Ryan Cherki, and Antoine Semenyo in the starting lineup.
Haaland had admitted a few days earlier that City's heavy schedule is grueling, insisting he would push through and stay focused on the next game.
He added that he tries his best because it is his job and he must be ready for the upcoming match.
The Norwegian had scored only one goal in his last eight appearances across all competitions.
Punchline: If resting Haaland is a tactical masterstroke, Guardiola's strategy might need a coffee break.
Punchline 2: The only thing heavier than Haaland's boot is the calendar.
