“It’s Difficult to Train”- After Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland Takes Swipe at Fixture Congestion

The past few years have seen a massive increase in fixtures per season. Soccer players worldwide now participate in 50 fixtures on average per season, excluding international outings. Players have voiced their concerns on the issue with PSG star Kylian Mbappe, commenting on the topic in an interview with GQ last month. However, it seems like Mbappe is not the only one frustrated with the fixtures with Manchester City star Erling Haaland expressing his thoughts while talking with the club media.

Haaland frustrations are understandable as the increase in fixtures has seen an alarming hike in injuries. The Norwegian striker suffered an ankle injury in December that saw him miss over 10 fixtures for his club. The striker has spent the past two months in recovery and is expected to make a start against Brentford next week.

Erling Haaland displeased with the lack of training between games

The Manchester City star discussed the issue while talking with the club’s media wing. While talking about the issue, Haaland expressed his concerns with the jam-packed schedule, claiming it isn’t providing players with ample time to train and recover. “When you play so many games, it’s difficult to train because you have to get ready and do the stuff that gets you fit for the next game.”

PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe also expressed similar thoughts during an interview with GQ in January. The Frenchman compared the current schedule with NBA fixtures, stating players were not getting enough rest between fixtures. “In the NBA, players don’t play every game, and franchises practice load management. But if I said ‘I’m tired, I’m not playing on Saturday,’ it wouldn’t go down well.”

Erling Haaland is expected to make his full-time comeback during Manchester City’s clash against Brentford. The striker has been a crucial player for the Cityzens this season and his return will surely boost the team’s hopes of defending the Premier League title.

Haaland expected to back on team sheet against the Bees

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola provided a fresh update for the fans during his press conference last night. Guardiola, while addressing the media, provided multiple updates surrounding his team while talking about a potential return for Erling Haaland. The Spaniard claimed Haaland was back in shape and was in-line to start against Brentford this Tuesday. Speaking to reporters, he said, “Everybody is fit, everybody is ready.” He further added, “Manuel (Akanji) is back as well. The busy period is here, and the Champions League is around the corner. It’s good to have everyone.” 

Haaland’s return comes in the midst of rumors from Spanish media claiming Haaland is unhappy. Guardiola quashed these rumors, saying, “We don’t have the feeling he is unhappy. Maybe the media in Spain has more information than us.”

Read More: Pep Guardiola Quashes Reports of Erling Haaland Being Unhappy at Manchester City Amid Real Madrid Links

The striker’s return is positive news for the side who will look to increase the pressure on table-toppers Liverpool in the coming weeks. Manchester City are currently five points behind the Reds with a game in hand. A win over Brentford will see the team close the margin with Jurgen Klopp’s men as they eye their fourth consecutive Premier League title.

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