Pep Guardiola’s side slumped to a 3-1 loss on Tuesday (01.20.26) in what left their hopes of automatic last-16 qualification hanging in the balance, compounding domestic frustration following a derby defeat by Manchester United days earlier.
Speaking to TNT Sports, Haaland said: “We did our best, but there’s something that’s missing, obviously. I take full responsibility, together with Rodri, Tijjani [Reijnders]; us experienced players.
“I don’t want to blame anyone, but we need to take more responsibility, because in the end it’s not good enough. We’re Manchester City. We can’t go around and not win games. It can’t be like this.”
The 25-year-old striker cut a visibly frustrated figure after missing a big first-half chance at the back post, with City punished ruthlessly at the other end.
Kasper Høgh struck twice in quick succession before the break, exposing defensive fragility that has crept into City’s game in recent weeks.
Haaland added: “I take full responsibility for not being able to score the goals I should do. I apologise to everyone; every single Manchester City supporter and every single supporter that travelled today.
“In the end, it’s embarrassing. Bodo, they played some incredible football, and in the end, it’s deserved.”
Despite scoring 39 goals for club and country this season, Haaland has managed just one in his last eight appearances, a run that mirrors City’s broader inconsistency.
He insisted there were no excuses, even with a relentless schedule.
He said: “Honestly, I don’t know what to say, because I don’t have the answers. What I can say is sorry. I do my best whenever I’m on the pitch. We play a ridiculous amount of games, but that’s my job.”
City’s problems deepened when midfielder Rodri was sent off after two quick bookings, ruling him out of the decisive final league-phase clash with Galatasaray.
Guardiola defended his players’ effort while acknowledging the impact of injuries and suspensions.
He said: “We started pretty well in many things. The players were incredibly committed. But when you concede two goals in two minutes, everything becomes more difficult.
“The back four always give you consistency. Right now we are missing that.”
Defenders John Stones and Josko Gvardiol remain sidelined, leaving City exposed on transitions.
The Citizens' issues were exploited expertly as Jens Petter Hauge added a superb third after half-time, while Rayan Cherki’s late strike proved only consolated Bodo/Glimt's victory.
Guardiola added: “They didn’t surprise me. They were Europa League semi-finalists last season. When you concede like that, it’s more difficult.”
