Haaland Warns of Player Fatigue Amid Packed Schedule

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has expressed concerns over player fatigue due to the demanding football schedule, which can see athletes participating in up to 70 games a year. Speaking during the club's pre-season tour in New York, Haaland noted the visible exhaustion among players during the recent Euros, highlighting that fatigue can significantly impact performance levels. He emphasized that while players strive to maintain sharpness, the sheer volume of matches makes it increasingly challenging. Reflecting on the previous season, Haaland pointed out that despite Manchester City winning their fourth consecutive Premier League title, they fell short in the Champions League, losing to Real Madrid in a dramatic penalty shootout. He acknowledged the disappointment of missing out on the prestigious trophy, particularly after his own near-miss when he hit the crossbar in a crucial quarter-final match. When asked about what the team might be lacking, Haaland was optimistic, stating that City has been consistently close to Champions League success. He praised the club's achievements over the past six years, asserting that they are not far from reaching their goals. Haaland believes that the outcome of matches often hinges on small margins, suggesting that a few key moments could have altered their Champions League fate. As the new season approaches, Haaland's comments underscore the ongoing debate about player welfare and the need for a balanced schedule to ensure athletes can perform at their best throughout the year.