Marmoush puts Haaland in a tough spot
The difference between the two is clear. Erling Haaland had one of his worst performances for Manchester City in their 2-2 draw against Brentford in the Premier League.
City went two goals up, thanks to Phil Foden, but Brentford struck back with two late goals. This result added to City’s struggles this season, as the defending champions have been inconsistent.
Meanwhile, Omar Marmoush, who is reportedly close to joining City, showcased his talent in Eintracht Frankfurt’s 4-1 win over Freiburg in the Bundesliga. Marmoush scored a goal and provided two assists, earning himself the man-of-the-match award.
Haaland disappears again as Marmoush impresses
While Marmoush dazzled for Frankfurt, Haaland delivered one of his weakest displays of the season against Brentford.
Haaland’s performances often depend on Kevin De Bruyne’s presence. Some have used this as an excuse for his struggles, but De Bruyne was at his best in the Brentford match, creating numerous chances. Haaland, however, failed to capitalize.
The Norwegian forward was almost invisible, missing key opportunities and failing to influence the game. His movement, hold-up play, and overall contributions were below par, emphasizing City’s need for Marmoush.
Marmoush could help ease the pressure on Haaland by sharing the scoring load, something Julian Alvarez did before leaving for Atletico Madrid.
Haaland’s stats against Brentford
Haaland attempted three shots on target, missed two big chances, and touched the ball only 32 times. He completed just 13 of 23 passes (57% accuracy) and lost the ball 14 times.
He won five aerial duels out of eight but did not make any defensive contributions. His SofaScore rating of 6.4/10 was the lowest of all players who completed the match.
Marmoush shines but shows one flaw
While Haaland struggled, Marmoush was exceptional for Frankfurt against Freiburg. He provided a perfect assist for Robin Koch’s goal and later scored one himself after a deflection.
Marmoush added another assist for Frankfurt’s fourth goal, creating significant threats alongside Hugo Ekitike.
However, Marmoush’s dribbling remains a weak point, as he frequently lost possession when trying to beat defenders.
Marmoush’s stats against Freiburg
Marmoush earned a 9.4/10 SofaScore rating, scoring a goal and making two assists. He took five shots, completed 34 of 39 passes (88% accuracy), and touched the ball 76 times.
He delivered four key passes, created two big chances, and won 11 out of 22 ground duels. However, he lost possession 24 times and made no defensive contributions.
A zero season looms for City
City has been linked to other players, including Abdulkadir Khosanov of Lens, but even these signings might not save their season.
The team has already been eliminated from the Carabao Cup, and their league title hopes are fading as they sit sixth with 35 points, 12 behind leaders Liverpool.
Pep Guardiola admitted that the club suggested a squad overhaul last summer, but he believed the existing team could deliver again. This decision has backfired, and Guardiola, along with the players and management, is facing the consequences.
Marmoush’s arrival may bring some attacking spark, but City’s problems run deeper. The team lacks consistency, defensive solidity, and the winning mentality that characterized their previous campaigns.
Can City compete in the Champions League and FA Cup? While theoretically possible, their current form and systemic issues suggest otherwise. Marmoush alone won’t fix this, and City needs a complete reset, including a rethink of Guardiola’s approach.
