Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, has voiced his concerns once again over the toll international breaks take on his players, highlighting the risks of over-exertion during the season.
Star striker Erling Haaland has confirmed he intends to participate in both of Norway’s upcoming Nations League fixtures, despite Guardiola’s previous warnings. Norway will first face Slovenia on Thursday, followed by a match against Austria on Sunday. Haaland shared a post on Instagram on Tuesday evening, featuring himself in his Norway kit with the two upcoming fixtures, signaling his readiness for both games.
Though playing two matches may seem routine, Guardiola has repeatedly expressed concerns about the strain these international breaks place on his players. Back in March, he specifically warned Haaland, saying that while the striker “was not his player for two weeks,” he should be careful not to push himself too hard in friendly games against Czechia and Slovakia.
Speaking to Match of the Day after Manchester City’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Fulham in the Premier League, Guardiola once again commented on the challenges of these international stints. “International break? I love it,” he sarcastically remarked to host Gary Lineker.
“I would have an international break every two weeks! For the players, it’s a problem—that’s why we always defend them. I’ll rest, and after the break, my energy will return. December, January, February, and March are tough, and we need that energy back.”
“But the players don’t get the rest they need,” he continued. “That’s the problem.”
When Haaland first joined City, the club worked closely with the Norwegian national team to manage his workload and reduce the risk of injury, ensuring that he could contribute both to his club and country. As another international break approaches, Guardiola’s unease about player fatigue remains a focal point.
