Copenhagen coach Neestrup: If we stop Haaland and De Bruyne, there's 7 others at Man City who'll pop up

Football
13 Feb 2024 • 8:12 PM MYT
Tribal Football
Tribal Football

Tribal Football covers news from the Premier League, LaLiga and Serie A

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FC Copenhagen coach Jacob Neestrup says he doesn't need advice on how to close down Manchester City star Erling Haaland.

FCK host the first-leg tonight of their Champions League round 16 tie.

Neestrup was asked whether he has consulted with his Norwegian players Mohammed Elyounoussi and Birger Meling about how to stop Haaland.

"I don't have that, because Elyounoussi just has to concentrate on scoring goals, and Birger Meling hasn't played a football match for three months," he responded.

"I am the head coach and I am the one who decides. I took it myself. I also watch football and I have a staff, so I haven't asked them about that."

Neestrup was also asked how to stop Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne, now they're together again.

"There is no conclusion on that. Because no matter how skilled you are, you will never, ever be able to shut down the two over time.

"But for us it's about making the rooms as small for them as possible and knowing their characteristics - both De Bruyne and Haaland.

"If we shut down those two, then there are about seven or eight other players, we have to remember to shut down afterwards too. They are two really, really good players, but there are also a handful of others at an absolutely top level."