Erling Haaland’s season began at breakneck speed, with goals flowing freely for both Manchester City and Norway. Lately, however, the machine-like efficiency that defined his early months has slowed, raising questions about whether the volume of matches has finally caught up with him.
Erling Haaland’s season began at breakneck speed, with goals flowing freely for both Manchester City and Norway. Lately, however, the machine-like efficiency that defined his early months has slowed, raising questions about whether the volume of matches has finally caught up with him.
Despite amassing 39 goals across 36 appearances in all competitions, the 25-year-old has managed just one strike in his last eight outings. That downturn has arrived alongside City slipping ground in the Premier League and suffering a surprise Champions League defeat away at Bodo/Glimt.
Pep Guardiola highlighted tired legs after the derby loss to Manchester United, but attention has shifted to Haaland’s workload and whether extended rest might have prevented this dip.
The striker’s recent frustration was laid bare during City’s freezing trip north in midweek. Trailing unexpectedly at the interval, Haaland spurned a prime chance from close range, dragging his effort wide when a goal had seemed inevitable.
Moments like that were routine finishes earlier in the campaign. Now, Haaland has gone eight matches without a goal from open play, his longest barren spell since his time in Germany, with only a single penalty interrupting the drought.
Speaking afterwards, the forward accepted blame, apologising to travelling supporters and acknowledging the relentless schedule. He pointed to the “ridiculous” number of fixtures, noting that he features almost every time City plays and must quickly refocus for the next challenge.
In pure minutes, Haaland has logged 2,568 across 31 club matches, placing him among the most-used players in England. When compared with attackers from Europe’s top leagues, only Jean-Philippe Mateta has spent more time on the pitch.
With domestic cups, European progression, and international friendlies still to come, Haaland’s season could stretch close to 70 matches before the summer World Cup, intensifying concerns about physical and mental fatigue.
Beyond the lack of goals, several indicators show a downturn. Haaland is shooting less frequently, his involvement inside opposition penalty areas has dropped, and his expected goals output has nearly halved compared to earlier in the season.
The wider context matters. Defensive injuries have slowed City’s build-up, Rodri is still rediscovering rhythm after injury, and Phil Foden’s attacking returns have stalled. All of this has reduced the quality and quantity of chances of reaching the Norwegian.
Guardiola’s selection choices have also been questioned. Haaland’s involvement in a one-sided FA Cup win over Exeter City appeared unnecessary, especially with young alternatives available. Yet the manager’s caution stems from a previous heavy-rotation gamble that ended in a costly Champions League defeat.
There is, however, potential relief ahead. Omar Marmoush’s return from AFCON and January arrival Antoine Semenyo provide additional options, which could lessen the pressure on City’s main scorer.
Former striker Chris Sutton remains unconcerned, stressing Haaland’s proven record and warning against premature conclusions. For Sutton, form is temporary, class permanent.
City’s early-season success leaned on quicker, more direct attacks, perfectly suited to Haaland’s explosive runs in behind. Recently, Guardiola has nudged his side back toward greater control, slowing tempo to protect against counters.
That evolution has consequences. Without certain ball-playing defenders, City struggles to progress rapidly or pin opponents deep, limiting the types of deliveries Haaland thrives on.
Against compact defences, the striker usually benefits from cut-backs after wide players stretch the line or from crosses aimed toward the far post. Inconsistent form from key wingers and the absence of reliable crossers have reduced those opportunities.
Teams increasingly focus defensive resources on Haaland, freeing space for others like Tijjani Reijnders to attack. While that can spread the scoring load, it leaves City’s number nine dependent on sharper service and collective movement.
Ultimately, Haaland’s slump appears less about a sudden loss of ability and more about fatigue, tactics, and circumstance. Whether rest or adjustment provides the solution will shape City’s pursuit of silverware in the months ahead.
