Manchester City strengthened their push for another Premier League crown with a convincing 3–0 success over Fulham, yet the afternoon was not without a hint of anxiety after Erling Haaland was withdrawn at the interval.
Pep Guardiola insisted afterwards that the substitution was purely precautionary, but the sight of the league’s leading scorer leaving the pitch inevitably raised questions.
The Cityzens produced a controlled and ruthless first-half display to see off Marco Silva’s side and move to within three points of Arsenal at the top of the table.
Goals from Nico O’Reilly, Antoine Semenyo and Haaland put City firmly in command before the break, underlining the attacking depth that has carried them through another demanding campaign.
Despite the comfortable scoreline, supporters were surprised when Haaland did not reappear for the second period, with January signing Omar Marmoush introduced instead.
Guardiola later explained that the Norwegian had complained of discomfort and that there was no desire to take unnecessary risks with such an important sequence of fixtures on the horizon.
He told TNT Sports: “[Haaland] had a niggle. Never doubt about the top scorers. The season is so long.”
City’s manager expanded on the decision during interviews with the club’s media channels, stressing that the player himself had signalled he was not completely at ease.
With the contest already effectively settled, the coaching staff felt it sensible to protect their prized striker rather than chase personal milestones.
Guardiola said: “He didn’t feel comfortable. The reason why? [He has played] many games. I didn’t speak with the doctors, I don’t know exactly what he was. Fatigue.
“He said ‘I don’t feel comfortable’ and at 3-0, with a lot more games to come, with Omar [Marmoush], it was an easy decision.”
The explanation will offer some reassurance to City followers who are well aware of how pivotal Haaland has been this season.
His powerful effort from distance against Fulham brought up his 22nd league goal of the campaign and added to the dramatic late strike that defeated Liverpool a week earlier.
Losing him for any length of time would be a significant blow as the title race reaches its decisive phase.
City’s overall performance, however, suggested a squad growing in confidence after a turbulent winter. The hosts dominated possession, pressed aggressively and rarely allowed Fulham to settle.
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O’Reilly’s composed finish was beautiful, while Semenyo’s contribution highlighted the impact of recent recruitment in revitalising Guardiola’s options.
Guardiola acknowledged that such high-pressure encounters can drain a team, making the professional manner of this win particularly pleasing.
He reflected: “It was not easy after incredible emotions when you play an emotional game like Liverpool.
“It was a really, really good performance. So happy with the guys.
“A lot of goals. He has a sense of the second balls in the box but not just that the pace and intensity – he is a top, top player. With him and Marc Guehi the club make incredible signings.
“The team in certain moments is growing, people are coming back. It is really, really important.”
Several key players have returned from injury in recent weeks, and the integration of new arrivals has added fresh energy to a group that looked stretched earlier in the season.
With a few League matches remaining this season, City cannot afford complacency. Arsenal remain ahead, and Liverpool continue to lurk with intent.
Every match now carries heightened significance, and Guardiola will need his entire squad fit and focused if they are to complete another successful defence.
