Pep Guardiola has explained his decision to substitute star striker Erling Haaland during Manchester City's disappointing 2-0 defeat to rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Carrick's Dream Start as United Boss
The match on January 17, 2026 marked Michael Carrick's first game in permanent charge of Manchester United, and his side delivered a performance full of vigour. Second-half goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu secured a deserved victory for the Red Devils, handing Guardiola's men a significant blow in the Premier League title race.
Haaland, who has been prolific for City, endured a quiet afternoon and failed to register a single shot on target. With ten minutes remaining, the Norwegian was replaced by 18-year-old academy prospect Divine Mukasa.
Guardiola's Reasoning Behind the Change
When questioned after the match if the substitution was made to 'save Haaland's legs', Guardiola offered a candid response. "Part of that, yes," the City manager admitted. "We had new energy. At the end it is a question of how many moments you have."
In a separate interview with Viaplay, Guardiola expanded on Haaland's subdued performance, shifting focus to the collective. "It’s not about just Erling, the energy you pass to them, and them to you, it’s a question of the group," he stated. "We are here because Erling has done unbelievable. Of course, he’s played a lot of games but believe me, it’s not just about him."
Conceding Defeat and Looking Ahead
Guardiola was unequivocal in his assessment of the match result, conceding that United were the superior team. "The better team won. They were better," he said. "When a team is better you have to accept it. They had the energy we didn’t have, so congratulations."
He added: "They had the chances at the end and of course the goals we conceded were poor. We didn’t control, but in general we can’t talk about this action or that action. We have the duty to analyse the game in general and they were better."
The defeat has tangible consequences for Manchester City's championship ambitions. They now sit six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal, who face Nottingham Forest later on Saturday. Reflecting on the gap, Guardiola remained philosophical. "It is about how we grow up as a team," he commented. "I have the feeling we have done very good things so far. To be better you may have to take a step back. The season is a long way and you have to continue to analyse."
