Virgil van Dijk reacts to Erling Haaland’s Man City message
Man City striker Erling Haaland took to social media to send a message to fans ahead of the club’s crucial clash against Real Madrid.
Man City will face Real Madrid in the Champions League at the Etihad Stadium in the first leg of the inaugural play-off match, which will determine who advances to the Round of 16.
The 25-year-old was left out of the squad against Leyton Orient as City narrowly avoided a cup upset.
They fell behind 1-0 after Jamie Donley scored a controversial Leyton Orient goal from near the halfway line, but they managed to turn the game around and secure a 2-1 victory.
Following the cup win, Haaland posted a message to Man City fans and has now taken to social media once again ahead of their massive European showdown.
Pep Guardiola needs Erling Haaland firing on all cylinders
Haaland was given a well-earned rest in the last match, having played the majority of games for his club this season. He has started all 33 games across all competitions, scoring 25 goals and providing two assists.
Ahead of the crucial European clash, the striker took to Instagram to share a training update, posting a collage of photos with the caption: “CL week!” as he prepares for one of City’s biggest tests of the season.
Liverpool stars Virgil van Dijk and Darwin Nunez showed their appreciation by liking the post.
As for the Reds, they have already secured their place in the Round of 16 after finishing top of the Champions League standings, avoiding the need for a play-off.
Erling Haaland crucial for Man City Champions League hopes
Football Insider Verdict
Pep Guardiola has faced criticism from Man City fans and pundits alike for their inconsistent performances this season.
They finished 22nd in the overall Champions League standings, narrowly avoiding automatic elimination by just one point. Their unconvincing campaign has put them in a difficult position, forcing them into this play-off tie against European giants Madrid.
Domestically, Guardiola’s struggles have also been evident. They currently sit 5th in the Premier League, 15 points behind long-time rivals Liverpool, as they fight to secure European qualification for next season.
While Haaland has continued to deliver in front of goal, several key players have underperformed, and injuries have only worsened Guardiola’s selection dilemmas.
The absence of Ballon d’Or winner Rodri in midfield has left a significant gap that the team have struggled to fill, disrupting the team’s balance.
With Man City lacking consistency and midfield stability, Haaland will be under even more pressure to deliver.