One player for Manchester City looms as a match-winner against Galatasaray | OneFootball

Erling Haaland and Phil Foden were rested from the starting lineup as Manchester City beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium last weekend. The pair desperately needed a rest, and they got that opportunity at the Etihad. Up next for Pep Guardiola’s side is a crucial Champions League fixture against Galatasaray. It is a must-win game for City as they bid to finish in the top-eight of the UEFA Champions League league phase table. Heading into the match, you do sense that Erling Haaland has a massive role to play. Haaland has been quiet recently, but it is time for him to come to life tomorrow night.

Manchester City need Haaland to fire up tomorrow night against Galatasaray.

Erling Haaland has only scored one goal in his past nine appearances fro Manchester City. That came from the penalty spot in City’s 1-all draw with Brighton earlier this month. What has caught the eye is how fatigued Haaland has seemed on the pitch. He has carried a heavy workload for both club and country, and it all looked to have caught up to him as January has progressed. Haaland’s physicality, which is a key part of his game, has dropped off. Against Manchester United and Bodø/Glimt, Haaland was easily knocked off the ball and beaten in duels, which resulted in his team losing possession. The hope is that by having a small rest, Haaland can regain this side of his game. Also, if that side of Haaland’s game returns, the goals should quickly return for the world’s best striker.

Manchester City need Haaland fired up and primed for the challenge ahead tomorrow night against Galatasaray. It is a crucial game for Pep Guardiola’s side. City must win to have any chance of claiming a top-eight finish in the Champions League league phase table. You do feel that Erling Haaland will start tomorrow night, and if he can perform, the Norwegian international could inspire his team at the Etihad Stadium against a Galatasaray side that is loaded with quality.

Final thoughts.

Erling Haaland got a semblance of rest against Wolverhampton Wanderers last Saturday. He, like Phil Foden, desperately needed it. The games continue to come thick and fast for Pep Guardiola’s side. City face four pivotal matches starting tomorrow night at Galatasaray. For Manchester City to get the results they need, it would appear that they need Erling Haaland to return to his best in front of goal and lift his overall play. If he does that, Pep Guardiola’s side are a more dangerous proposition with the world’s best striker firing and throwing his weight around on the pitch.