Erling Haaland may be one of Manchester City’s biggest stars, but he can never become the club captain. It could create an unusual tactical problem under new head coach Enzo Maresca. The Italian manager has a distinctive rule for his captain whenever his team scores. Instead of joining the celebrations, the skipper must immediately return to the bench for fresh instructions.
However, there is one exception. If the captain himself scores the goal, he is free to celebrate. That rule prompted a hilarious reaction from Maresca when Haaland’s name was mentioned as a potential skipper. Given the Norwegian’s regular involvement in Man City’s goals, the newly appointed boss quipped that it could create a genuine problem for him.
Maresca’s Unusual Rule Creates Haaland Captaincy Problem
According to Enzo Maresca, he introduced the rule during his managerial spells at Leicester City and Chelsea. The idea was simple. Once a goal is scored, the captain should quickly return to the technical area instead of joining his teammates for celebrations.
The purpose is nothing but tactical. Maresca wants to use those crucial moments after a goal to discuss further plans, as the game changes with every strike.
Maresca explained: “If the captain scores, then he can celebrate.”
When it’s Haaland, the situation is definitely tricky. The Norwegian striker is one of Manchester City’s key attacking figures and regularly features on the scoresheet.
When asked about Haaland potentially becoming captain of Manchester City FC, Maresca immediately pointed out the problem. “That is a good one,” he said. “But if Erling is the captain, f***ing hell! We have a problem, can you imagine?”
Who Could Lead Manchester City Under Maresca?
Behind the joke lies a genuine leadership decision for the new Manchester City boss. Maresca has several possible candidates for the captaincy as he looks forward to the Premier League 2026-27 season.
Haaland was also among the players who welcomed Maresca to the club, underlining his importance within the group. However, the Norwegian is not the only option. Maresca has reportedly identified three or four possible leaders, while Rodri’s future remains uncertain.
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