Erling Haaland’s incredible start to the new season has left Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola beaming with pride, and the Norwegian striker’s numbers are simply “unbelievable” according to the Spanish manager. Haaland has been the Premier League’s top scorer in his first two seasons with City, with 36 league goals as they won the Treble in 2022-23. The 24-year-old scored his 10th hat-trick for City during Saturday’s 4-1 win over Ipswich, giving him four goals from two games.
Guardiola has been impressed with Haaland’s work rate and dedication to the team, saying: “I like when he runs a lot. I like when he presses like an animal. I like it. It helps to score a goal. When you are connected defensively, you are connected offensively.” The manager believes that Haaland’s ability to close down opponents is key to City’s success, saying: “His body language – imagine a central defender has the ball and he makes a sprint with this body and legs moving. It’s scary.”
The Importance of Haaland’s Pressing Game
Haaland’s pressing game is a crucial aspect of City’s high-intensity style of play. By closing down opponents quickly, Haaland is able to win the ball back and create scoring opportunities for his team. Guardiola believes that this is essential for City’s success, saying: “This is not negotiable. If you don’t score a goal, it’s fine. But you need to do it.” The manager also praised Haaland’s ability to stay focused and motivated, saying: “He feels good. Last season always he had problems in the hips, in the ankles, in the knee. This season of course he takes care of himself with the physios really well, but I had the feeling that he is sharper.”
Haaland’s dedication to his training is also evident in his willingness to stay behind after sessions to practice his crosses and controls. Guardiola said: “After training sessions he stays longer to practise the crosses and controls. Last season it never happened because he was not perfect. With his body, he has to be perfect to perform at that level.” This level of commitment is essential for any top-level athlete, and Haaland’s dedication to his craft is a key factor in his success.
Haaland’s Impact on the Team
Haaland’s impact on the team cannot be overstated. His goalscoring record is impressive, but it’s not just about the numbers. Haaland’s presence on the pitch lifts the entire team, and his work rate sets an example for his teammates. Guardiola said: “The people in the middle and back [can] support him. And we are more effective in our high pressing.” This is a testament to Haaland’s ability to lead by example and inspire his teammates to raise their game.
Haaland’s Future at Manchester City
With Haaland’s contract set to run until 2027, City fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their star striker is committed to the club. However, there have been rumors of interest from other top European clubs, and Haaland’s future at City is far from certain. Guardiola said: “We’re happy to have him, but we know that in football, you never know what can happen.” Despite this, Haaland seems happy at City, and his performances on the pitch suggest that he is committed to the club.
Haaland’s future at City will depend on a number of factors, including the club’s success on the pitch and the player’s personal ambitions. However, one thing is certain – Haaland is a key player for City, and his presence on the pitch is essential to the team’s success.
Haaland’s Legacy at Manchester City
Haaland’s legacy at Manchester City is already being cemented. The Norwegian striker has won numerous titles with the club, including the Premier League and the FA Cup. His goalscoring record is impressive, and he has become a fan favorite at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola said: “He’s a special player, and we’re lucky to have him.” Haaland’s legacy at City will be remembered for years to come, and he will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the greatest strikers to ever play for the club.
Haaland’s Statistics at Manchester City
| Season | League Goals | FA Cup Goals | Champions League Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-23 | 36 | 5 | 12 |
| 2023-24 | 4 (so far) | 0 | 0 |
Haaland’s statistics at Manchester City are impressive, and he has already become one of the most prolific strikers in the club’s history. His goalscoring record is a testament to his ability and dedication to the team.
Conclusion
Erling Haaland’s start to the new season has been nothing short of incredible. The Norwegian striker has already scored four goals in two games, and his work rate and dedication to the team have been praised by manager Pep Guardiola. Haaland’s future at Manchester City is uncertain, but one thing is certain – he is a key player for the club, and his presence on the pitch is essential to the team’s success.
Haaland’s legacy at Manchester City is already being cemented, and he will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the greatest strikers to ever play for the club. His statistics are impressive, and he has already become one of the most prolific strikers in the club’s history.
As the season progresses, Haaland will be looking to continue his impressive form and help Manchester City win more titles. With his dedication and work rate, there is no doubt that he will be a key player for the club for years to come.