New Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has addressed the speculation surrounding his team's captaincy, clarifying that striker Erling Haaland is not a candidate for the role. Speaking to journalists in South Korea, the Italian manager explained that his leadership policy inherently disqualifies his primary goalscorer from wearing the armband.
Maresca, who took over from Pep Guardiola this summer, outlined a specific tactical rule he implemented during his time at Leicester City and Chelsea. He pointed out that his policy ensures that the Norwegian cannot be eligible for the role, as he often requires his captain to receive instructions whenever their striker scores a goal. The manager noted the impracticality of this requirement if the captain happens to be the one scoring. He remarked that if Haaland were the captain, it would create a significant problem, as there is almost always an adjustment to be made even during short intervals of play.
While Haaland occasionally served as a captain under the previous administration, the upcoming season will see changes in the leadership group. The club is currently without former captain Bernardo Silva, and questions remain regarding the future of Rodri, who has been linked with a potential move away from the team. Maresca noted that he is still in the process of deciding on his captains, with centre-back Ruben Dias and long-serving player Phil Foden emerging as potential options for the role.
In terms of team preparation, Erling Haaland is expected to return to action for the Community Shield match against Arsenal on August 16. The Premier League side granted Haaland an extended break this summer after he played in over 60 games for club and country in the last 12 months. After spending nearly a month on vacation, Haaland is scheduled to rejoin pre-season training in Manchester on August 11. Under Maresca's guidance, the team has remained unbeaten in their three summer friendlies, securing two wins and one draw.
In the case of Rodri, see what happens", he said (via The Athletic).
The 26-year-old has been away from the club throughout the summer, having featured for Norway at the FIFA World Cup.
