Champions League: Guardiola Chooses to Rest Haaland for Leverkusen Match
Manchester City is set to face Bayer Leverkusen without their star striker, Erling Haaland. Coach Pep Guardiola has decided to rest several key players for this Champions League match. Haaland, who has scored in all four previous Champions League games, will start on the bench.
Guardiola’s Strategic Decisions
In his 100th match coaching in the Champions League, Guardiola made significant changes to the lineup. He opted for ten changes after a recent 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United in the league.
Key Players Rested
- Gianluigi Donnarumma (Goalkeeper)
- Phil Foden
- Jeremy Doku
- Rayan Cherki
Instead of Haaland, Omar Marmoush will lead the attack. Several prominent players will remain sidelined as Guardiola aims to give his squad some much-needed rest.
Leverkusen’s Situation
Bayer Leverkusen, dealing with numerous player absences, will field their strongest available team. They are coming off a morale-boosting 1-0 victory against Benfica Lisbon.
Champions League Standings
Manchester City remains unbeaten in the group stage of the Champions League. The team is focused on maintaining their strong performance despite the changes made for this match.
