Haaland returned in what was ultimately a frustrating 0-0 draw for City at Southampton as the Saints defended for their lives to collect an unlikely point given their Premier League standing.
The star striker, who’s been absent since March’s 2-1 away win at Bournemouth, played the whole game as he looks to be a catalyst for the Blues as we eye FA Cup glory and Champions League qualification.
Guardiola was delighted to put him back into the starting line-up and happy to see him finish the match despite the long spell out of action.
MATCH REPORT: SOUTHAMPTON 0-O CITY
“Today it was massively important to have him with the team,” he said.
“We have one week to think about it. The truth it’s been five or six weeks off not like Phil or Savinho who need two or three sessions. He needs maybe more time.
“He did well to play 97 minutes. I could not expect that much. We need him.”
Haaland’s best chance - after being played in by substitute Jeremy Doku - was well collected by Aaron Ramsdale in the second half while the Norwegian almost turned provider as he set up Nico O’Reilly and Savinho in the closing stages of the St Mary’s clash but the pair failed to punish the hosts.
Guardiola says we must accept the point from the south coast clash and focus on what’s still to come.
“We had the chances, one from Savinho, one chance for Nico, two or three actions with headers and Jeremy to Erling the control was a little bit long,” he added.
“We had chances but unfortunately we could not score.
“They did not have one shot on target but you have to accept it.”
Watch the manager’s press conference above.
