Erling Haaland will not start in Manchester City’s final Group G clash against Juventus at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. While the match determines who finishes top of the group, City manager Pep Guardiola has opted to rest the Norwegian striker, despite his recent goal-scoring form.
After playing 30 minutes against Wydad AC and the full 90 in the 6–0 rout of Al Ain—where he scored from the penalty spot—Haaland will begin the game on the bench. Guardiola’s decision is purely tactical, aimed at preserving his star forward for the upcoming knockout rounds as City eyes a deep run in the tournament.
The Citizens are already qualified for the Round of 16, but this match against Juventus is crucial in determining seeding. The winner will likely avoid tougher matchups in the next round, with potential opponents such as Real Madrid, Al Hilal, or RB Salzburg still in the running from Group H.
City‘s attacking front will look different this time around. With Haaland out, Guardiola turns to a forward trio featuring Savinho, Omar Marmoush, and Jérémy Doku. All eyes will be on whether this reshuffled lineup can maintain the attacking intensity the team is known for.
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Joining Haaland on the bench are Marcus Betinelli, Stefan Ortega Moreno, John Stones, Nathan Aké, Nico González, İlkay Gündoğan, Vitor Reis, Joško Gvardiol, Rayan Cherki, Abdukodir Khusanov, Phil Foden, Oscar Bobb, and Nico O’Reilly.
Manchester City starting XI vs. Juventus
Ederson; Matheus Nunes, Manuel Akanji, Rúben Dias, Rayan Aït-Nouri; Rodri, Tijjani Reijnders, Bernardo Silva; Savinho, Omar Marmoush, Jérémy Doku.
With both sides already through to the next round, the focus is on momentum and positioning. Resting Haaland may prove to be a wise move if City can still come out on top—preserving energy now for the more intense stages ahead.
