Manchester City coach explains criteria that prevent Haaland from being captain after Bernardo Silva’s departure By Thiago Lemos
2 min read
 |
Manchester City’s new commander, Enzo Maresca, indicated, on August 11, 2026, that Erling Haaland has little chance of being the team’s next captain. The decision comes after the departure of Bernardo Silva, who transferred to Real Madrid. The reason given by the coach is the Norwegian striker’s high ability to score goals.
Maresca detailed his leadership policy, stating that he had already applied it in previous clubs. “At Leicester and Chelsea, I had a rule that when we scored a goal, the captain had to go to the bench. Not to celebrate, but to receive instructions. If Erling is the captain, we have a problem,” said the coach, referring to the need to keep the captain close for tactical guidance and the impact this would have on a top scorer like Haaland.
During the preparation games in Asia, defender Rúben Dias was the athlete chosen by Maresca to wear the captain’s armband.
The coach exemplified the application of the rule with Dias. “In Wednesday’s game, when we scored the first goal, Rúben came to the bench. I think that even if it’s just two or three minutes, there’s always something to adjust,” he explained.
In another move in the transfer market, Manchester City did not accept an offer from Barcelona for midfielder Rodri.
In the initial matches under Maresca’s management, Haaland was absent from the field. The Norwegian striker had an extended rest period due to the World Cup and did not participate in the pre-season.
Manchester City’s official debut in the 2026/27 season is scheduled for next weekend. The team will face Arsenal, in a game valid for the English Super Cup.
