The Strange Reason Haaland Didn’t Play at the Bernabéu
One of the biggest surprises of the Real Madrid vs. Manchester City clash—aside from Madrid’s dominant qualification—was Erling Haaland’s absence from the second-leg match. The Norwegian forward wasn’t seen warming up before the game or even preparing on the sidelines as City desperately searched for a comeback.
His omission raised many eyebrows, especially considering City’s lackluster performance. Haaland’s physical presence and goal-scoring ability could have provided the attacking spark Guardiola’s side needed, yet he remained seated for the entire match.
Jamie Carragher has now shed light on the situation, revealing what happened. “Haaland spoke to the coach in the morning and told him he wasn’t fit,” Carragher stated. The Norwegian reportedly picked up a knock in the previous game against Newcastle, and it turned out to be more serious than initially thought.
However, the former footballer jokingly suggested an alternative theory: “Is it Rüdiger’s fault?” Carragher questioned, implying that Haaland’s struggles against the German defender might have played a psychological role. He even coined the term “Rüdigeritis” to describe the striker’s apparent inability to perform against Madrid.
Real Madrid Has Haaland’s Number
Haaland is one of the most feared strikers in world football—except when he faces Real Madrid. While he did manage to score twice in the first leg, one of those goals came from a penalty and ultimately didn’t impact the outcome of the tie.
Every time he has played against Los Blancos, Antonio Rüdiger has been a constant obstacle, effectively neutralizing him with tight marking and physical duels. Haaland has never seemed comfortable facing the German defender, often looking for other ways to break through—but to no avail.
Last season, he attempted to target Nacho instead, only for the Real Madrid captain to get the better of him. In this season’s first leg, he switched his focus to Raúl Asencio, who also stood firm. Then, in the second leg, Haaland didn’t even step on the pitch. Whether it was due to injury or psychological pressure, one thing is clear—Real Madrid continues to have the upper hand over the Norwegian superstar.
