Erling Haaland has issued a public apology to Manchester City fans following a shocking 3-1 Champions League defeat to Bodo/Glimt on Tuesday night.
Returning to his homeland as part of Pep Guardiola’s squad, the Norwegian striker was expected to inspire City to a routine victory. Instead, the Premier League champions were stunned in the Arctic Circle, suffering one of their most humiliating European defeats in recent years.
City Stunned In Norway
Manchester City entered the clash as overwhelming favourites, boasting star power across the pitch with Haaland, Phil Foden, Rodri, and Rayan Cherki all starting. However, expectations quickly unraveled as Bodo/Glimt tore through City’s defence, scoring twice in three devastating minutes midway through the first half through Kasper Hogh.
Jens Petter Hauge extended the lead to 3-0 before the hour mark, leaving City in complete disarray. Cherki’s deflected strike briefly offered hope, but Rodri’s red card shortly after ended any realistic chance of a comeback.
The result leaves City seventh in the Champions League league-phase table, putting serious pressure on Guardiola’s side to secure a top-eight finish and avoid an extra knockout round in an already congested season.
Haaland Takes The Blame
Never one to hide, Haaland faced the media after the match and delivered a brutally honest assessment of both his own performance and the team’s display.
“I don’t have the answers. I take full responsibility of not being able to score the goals I should do,” Haaland told TNT Sports.
“I just apologize to everyone; every single Man City supporter and every single supporter that traveled today, because in the end it’s embarrassing.”
The striker also gave credit where it was due, acknowledging Bodo/Glimt’s quality and intensity on the night.
“Bodo played some incredible football and in the end it’s deserved. Honestly, I don’t know what to say because I don’t have the answers. What I can say is sorry.”
Guardiola Admits Momentum Is Against City
Pep Guardiola echoed Haaland’s frustration, admitting that City currently seem unable to catch a break in key moments.
“Everything is going wrong, going against us in many details,” Guardiola said.
“In this competition, nothing is for granted. United were better than us [in the derby]. Today, it was momentum that punished us.”
What Next For Manchester City?
This defeat follows Saturday’s Manchester derby loss, compounding a difficult run of form. City now face a tough challenge both domestically—where they trail Arsenal in the title race—and in Europe, where qualification is far from guaranteed.
For Haaland and City, the response in the coming weeks will define their season.
Want To Advertise With Us?
📩 Contact: sales@ventolitemarketing.com
For sharp analysis, breaking football news, and global sports coverage, Sports Market International remains your trusted home for the beautiful game.