Haaland’s Sudden Rest: City Face Newcastle in the FA Cup, Madrid Looms Large
7 March 2026
City fans are counting on their Norwegian striker.
Manchester City's squad for the FA Cup clash with Newcastle United saw Erling Haaland sidelined, prompting questions about his fitness.
The absence comes ahead of a high-stakes Champions League first leg with Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
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Another note pointed to Real Madrid loading up with stars ahead of the City match.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano stated Haaland is not carrying injuries, and the rest is a tactical decision by Pep Guardiola.
Romano added that Haaland is likely to start against Madrid in the upcoming fixture.
Real Madrid progressed to the knockout rounds after beating Benfica in the playoff, 1-0 away and 2-1 at home.
If only Haaland's rest was a transfer plot twist, we'd all be laughing.
Punchline 1: Guardiola's training plan includes a cameo by the snooze button.
Punchline 2: If rest wins games, City are about to lift the calendar.
