Maresca praises Haaland’s impact as Man City beat RB Leipzig in Champions League

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has praised Erling Haaland for his decisive contribution in the club’s hard-fought 3-2 victory over RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League. 

The Norwegian striker scored the winner despite limited involvement for much of the match, helping City secure all three points in Germany.

Haaland needed just 13 touches to make his mark, finding the back of the net with a clinical finish at the back post. 

The goal came after impressive work from Elliot Anderson, whose creativity helped create the opportunity for the striker to deliver the decisive moment.

Speaking after the match, Maresca described Haaland as a player who remains alert throughout games and is always capable of making a difference. 

He said the forward’s ability to stay involved mentally was important, adding that he was pleased to see him score and lead the team as captain.

The City manager also acknowledged that his team still had significant room for improvement despite the victory. 

Maresca said the players were adapting to his methods following his arrival four months earlier, stressing that building an effective playing style required time and consistent work on the training ground.

Maresca was particularly concerned about the goals City conceded against Leipzig, describing both as avoidable defensive mistakes.

He noted that although the team had created several scoring opportunities, they needed to improve their concentration and organization to prevent similar lapses in future matches.

The Italian also admitted that winning away from home in Germany was difficult, making the result especially important.

City will now turn their attention to their upcoming domestic fixtures, with Maresca hopeful that continued work will help the team become more balanced defensively while maintaining their attacking threat.

The victory provides City with a valuable boost in their Champions League campaign, although Maresca believes the performance highlighted areas that must be addressed. 

With Haaland continuing to deliver in crucial moments, the manager will be looking for greater consistency across the squad as the season progresses.