“Sorry” – Erling Haaland issues heartfelt apology to Manchester City fans after Bodo/Glimt defeat | OneFootball

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has issued a clear and heartfelt apology to the club’s supporters following a heavy defeat at the hands of Bodo/Glimt in Norway.

The result has intensified scrutiny on Pep Guardiola’s side at a point in the season where consistency has already been questioned. City’s European campaign, once expected to progress smoothly, has instead been marked by unexpected setbacks and a growing sense that standards have slipped.

There has also been a recurring theme in recent weeks surrounding leadership and responsibility within the squad, and with a blend of senior figures and emerging talents, Manchester City have been searching for the right balance.

Adding to the narrative is Erling Haaland’s own form, which has been under discussion. The Norwegian striker, usually so reliable in front of goal, has endured a rare spell without his customary ruthlessness.

Manchester City endured a night to forget in the Arctic Circle, struggling to impose themselves on an artificial surface and in freezing conditions. The hosts raced into an early two-goal advantage through Kasper Høgh, capitalising on defensive errors.

Despite a strong save from Gianluigi Donnarumma to prevent a third before half-time, City were left chasing, and the situation worsened after the break when a stunning long-range effort extended Bodo/Glimt’s lead. Although Rayan Cherki managed to pull one back, Rodri’s dismissal for two yellow cards ended any realistic hopes of a comeback.

Speaking to TNT Sports from the Aspmyra Stadion on Tuesday night, Erling Haaland confirmed that both he and City’s other senior stars in Norway take “full responsibility” for the defeat to Bodo/Glimt.

“I take full responsibility together with Rodri, Gigio [Donnarumma], Tijjani [Reijnders] – us experienced players,” said Haaland.

“I don’t want to blame anyone but we need to take more responsibility, because at the end it’s not good enough. We’re Man City, we can’t go around and not win games, it shouldn’t be like this.”

When pressed for what he felt had specifically gone wrong for his side in the Arctic Circle, the Manchester City striker admitted, “I don’t have the answers. I take full responsibility of not being able to score.

“I just apologise to everyone; every single Manchester City supporter, every supporter that travelled [to Bodo], because in the end it’s embarrassing.

“Honestly, I don’t know what to say because I don’t have the answers, and what I can say is sorry.”

Looking ahead, Manchester City now face a decisive final group-stage fixture against Galatasaray next week, where victory is required to secure a top-eight finish and avoid further complications in their UEFA Champions League campaign.

The pressure on both the players and coaching staff is mounting, with little room left for further mistakes. As for Erling Haaland, this moment could become a turning point, as his comments reflect accountability and a determination to truly lead from the front.

The response from Manchester City in the coming days and weeks will define their season, and that starts with a home Premier League clash against Wolves on Saturday afternoon at the Etihad Stadium.