Striker Erling Haaland was labeled a “small player in big matches” because he did not score in Manchester City’s last 6 finals.

On the night of May 25, Haaland remained completely goalless against Manchester United, contributing to Manchester City’s 1-2 defeat in the FA Cup 2024 final, allowing their cross-town rivals to lift the cup.

The Norwegian striker played the entire match, only managing 2 attempts on goal and failing to create any chances for his teammates. He made 9 passes, all of which were directed towards his own team’s half of the pitch.

This isn’t the first time Haaland has failed to find the net in a crucial match for Man City. According to statistics, in the last 6 finals and cup competitions that Manchester City has participated in, Haaland has not scored.

These include the 2022 FA Community Shield against Liverpool, the 2023 FA Cup final against Manchester United, the 2023 UEFA Champions League final against Inter Milan, the 2023 FA Community Shield against Arsenal, and the 2023 UEFA Super Cup against Sevilla. In the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup final against Fluminense, which Manchester City won 4-1, Haaland did not play.

Moreover, in the previous season, Haaland appeared ineffective in both Champions League semifinals and FA Cup semifinals.

Haaland has been dubbed the “small player in big games,” as in other matches of various competitions, he is a nightmare for opposing defenders. Last season, he scored a total of 52 goals in 53 matches, accounting for 34.4% of Manchester City’s total goals. This season, the former Borussia Dortmund forward has contributed 38 goals in 45 matches, equivalent to 25.5% of the team’s total goals.