The City striker will be in the squad for our Premier League clash with Ipswich Town on Saturday at 15:00 (UK), fresh from becoming the Club’s all-time record goalscorer in Europe following his double against Paris Saint-Germain.
Haaland has 10 goals from nine games in all competitions so far this season and once again leads the top scorer’s list.
With another four appearances for Norway during the international break, it’s been a busy start for our number nine.
And Maresca says he will look at rotating the team during an intense period of action with Elliot Anderson, Enzo Fernández, Marc Guéhi and Rúben Dias also busy for club and country.
“At some point we probably need to give him rest, some days off,” the City boss said in his pre-match news conference.
“We are thinking about this not just with Erling because we have players, unfortunately or fortunately, they are playing all the games with us and all the games with the international teams.
“Elliot, Enzo, Marc, Erling, Rúben – so at some point we probably need to give them some rest.”
Fernández has settled quickly following his move from Chelsea, helping us to win our opening six matches in the Premier League to top the table by three points.
Maresca knows the Argentinian well and is full of praise for his qualities both on and off the pitch.
A player with fighting spirit, the Italian says he is sometimes wrongly portrayed from the reality of his personality.
“He is a nice person,” when asked about our No. 17. “He has a big heart and is a nice person.
“Polite, professional. Sometimes the image from outside is completely different from the reality.
“He is a top guy, with a great family – mum and dad, wife, kids. I know all of them. That’s why I have no doubts about that, he is a very good guy.”
Be at City v AEK Athens!
We welcome the Greek champions in a 20:00 (UK) kick-off on Tuesday 20 October for our third game in this year’s League Phase.
Known for their vociferous support and enjoying their first Champions League campaign since 2018/19, the striking yellow and black colours of AEK Athens make for a spectacle everywhere they go.
And every game counts if we’re to finish in the top eight and ensure safe progression through to the Round of 16.
So make sure you’re there to support the Blues, with adult prices starting from £35 and Under-18s just £20 each.
And why not make a special night of it?
We have a wide range of hospitality packages available, whether you’re looking for an exclusive bar, a dining experience or true once-in-a-lifetime magic, it’s all available at the Etihad Stadium.
In fact, hospitality starts from just £90 per person!
And you can save 20% off your hospitality when you book any two eligible home UEFA Champions League fixtures in the brand-new City Hall or CROSSBAR suites!
