To balance various competitions, Maresca stated that Haaland must get adequate rest.

Manchester City secured a 1-0 victory over Coventry City in a key match of the third round of the 2026/27 Premier League season, thanks to a goal from Haaland. Maresca stated that Norwegian star Haaland needs adequate rest during matches to better cope with different competitions.

In the match against Coventry City, Semenho chipped a pass from the right wing into the box in the 26th minute, and Haaland headed the ball into the net, giving Manchester City a 1-0 lead.

Manchester City ultimately defeated newly promoted Coventry City 1-0 at the Etihad Stadium, securing their third consecutive victory.

It's worth mentioning that the 2026/27 UEFA Champions League will kick off with its first round of matches, and Manchester City will travel to Porto for an away game.

Manchester City manager Maresca said, "So far, apart from the Community Shield, Haaland has played every minute of every game for us. We need to protect Haaland because the season is going to be very long and he needs to recover during the process."

"It will depend on the game itself and our game plan. Semenho can play as a number 9, and Foden has also played as a false 9. As for the specific arrangement, it will depend on the situation of the game."

Maresca also stated, "We will be playing our first Champions League match, so the focus now is on that game, and then we'll think about the next one."

“We have already seen the performances of Ayoub Buadi, Ryan McAdoo and Ndiaye. None of them have played in the Champions League before, but now they need to start facing such competitions, so they will get playing time in the Champions League.”

Image source: Internet