Pep Guardiola Provides Update On Erling Haaland Ahead of Manchester City vs Arsenal Carabao Cup final

Pep Guardiola has moved quickly to calm fears over Erling Haaland’s fitness after Manchester City’s Champions League exit, insisting his star striker will be ready for the upcoming Carabao Cup final against Arsenal.

It was a frustrating night at the Etihad Stadium as City’s European hopes came to an end against Real Madrid. Trailing heavily from the first leg, Guardiola’s side needed something special to turn the tie around. While there were moments of promise, the task ultimately proved too big, with Madrid progressing comfortably with a 5-1 aggregate scoreline.

Despite the disappointment, one positive for City was the performance of Haaland.

The Norwegian striker came into the game under pressure. Known for his incredible scoring record, Haaland had been going through a rare dry spell, managing just four goals in his previous 17 appearances. For a player of his standards, that kind of run naturally raises questions.

But against Real Madrid, there were signs of a return to form.

Haaland looked sharp, energetic, and determined to make an impact. He registered five shots on target and managed to get his name on the scoresheet, offering City a glimmer of hope during the match. His movement caused problems for Madrid’s defence, and for long periods, he was the focal point of City’s attacking efforts.

However, with more than 30 minutes still to play and City needing multiple goals to force extra time, Guardiola made the surprising decision to substitute his main striker, bringing on Omar Marmoush.

The decision raised eyebrows immediately.

Haaland was later seen sitting on the bench, shaking his head as he watched the remainder of the game unfold. For many fans and pundits, it was a puzzling moment — why take off your most dangerous attacker when chasing goals in such an important match?

The situation became even more concerning when questions emerged about whether the substitution was due to a possible injury.

Guardiola was quick to dismiss those fears.

“Erling Haaland has no injury,” he told reporters after the game. “He will be available against Arsenal in the Cup final.”

That statement will come as a major relief to City supporters. With a trophy on the line at Wembley, having Haaland fit and available is crucial. Even when not at his absolute best, his presence alone changes how opponents defend, creating space and opportunities for teammates.

Still, the decision to take him off has sparked debate.

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney questioned the move while speaking as a pundit.

“I would like to have seen him stay on longer and for City to try and score the second goal,” Rooney said. “Pep and Haaland knew the tie was over so they chose to rest him.”

Rooney’s comments reflect a broader view — that Guardiola may have already accepted defeat in the tie and shifted focus to upcoming fixtures. With the Carabao Cup final just days away, preserving Haaland’s energy and avoiding unnecessary risk could have been part of a bigger plan.

From a tactical perspective, the substitution does make some sense.

Chasing three goals against a team as experienced as Real Madrid is always a difficult task. Once it became clear that the comeback was unlikely, protecting key players becomes a priority. Haaland, given his importance to City, falls into that category.

At the same time, football is often driven by belief — and removing your main goal threat can send a signal, both to your team and to your opponents.

For City, the focus now shifts quickly to Wembley.

The Carabao Cup final against Arsenal represents a chance to secure silverware and bring some positivity back after the European disappointment. It is also an opportunity for Haaland to respond, both to his recent goal drought and to the scrutiny that comes with it.

While his recent numbers are below his usual standards, they still tell an important story. Even in a difficult run, Haaland continues to get into goal-scoring positions, as shown by his five shots on target against Madrid. That suggests the issue may not be his overall play, but rather a temporary dip in finishing efficiency.

For a striker of his quality, those phases rarely last long.

Guardiola will be hoping that Haaland can rediscover his clinical edge in time for the final. Arsenal, known for their organised defence, will present a tough challenge, but they will also be wary of giving Haaland any space.

Beyond the individual focus, City as a team will need to respond.

The defeat to Real Madrid highlighted areas that need improvement — particularly in defence and game management. Against top-level opposition, small mistakes can quickly become costly, as City experienced over the two legs.

But football offers little time to dwell on setbacks.

A final at Wembley is the perfect stage for redemption. For Guardiola, it is a chance to guide his team to another trophy. For Haaland, it is an opportunity to silence any doubts and remind everyone of his quality.

And for Manchester City, it is a moment to turn disappointment into motivation.

Because while the Champions League dream may be over for this season, there is still silverware to fight for — and with Haaland fit and ready, City will believe they have every chance.