All told, the boss made 10 changes from the side that lost 2-1 at Newcastle on Saturday with Haaland amongst those named amongst the substitutes.
Haaland was one of five changes introduced early in the second half as City sought to fight back after ging two goals down.
However, the Germans held firm to inflict a first European loss of the season on the Blues.
Addressing the media in his post-match press conference, the boss explained why he had opted to start with Haaland on the bench.
“Erling was in [World Cup] qualification for Norway and it was so demanding against Newcastle,” the boss explained.
“I see Omar [Marmoush] close to the box, and we have attacking midfielders there central to the way we play.
“Erling cannot sustain every 95 minutes in teams that make incredible build-up, they break the lines and we need fresh legs.
“Erling played for example for Norway 90 minutes and 90 minutes and after they take the [World Cup] celebration.
“And after [that] Newcastle and not much recovery, just three days. I prefer quality time.”
Play the video to watch Pep’s video in full…
