Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that he had a candid conversation with star striker Erling Haaland over the summer, addressing “some things” he “didn’t like.” Despite Haaland’s impressive goal-scoring record, Guardiola emphasized the importance of the Norwegian’s defensive contribution, urging him to “press like an animal” to help the team maintain its high standards.
Haaland, who has been the Premier League’s top scorer for two consecutive seasons, played a crucial role in City’s historic Treble win in 2022-23, netting 36 league goals. Last season, he added 27 more goals to his tally as City secured an unprecedented fourth straight league title. However, Guardiola made it clear that goal-scoring alone isn’t enough.
“I like when he runs a lot. I like when he presses like an animal. I like it. It helps to score a goal,” Guardiola said. He highlighted the connection between a player’s defensive and offensive efforts, noting that Haaland’s relentless pressing creates a ripple effect throughout the team. “When you are connected defensively, you are connected offensively,” he added.
Guardiola stressed that Haaland’s pressing sets the tone for the entire team, making City more effective in their high pressing. “This is not negotiable. If you don’t score a goal, it’s fine. But you need to do it,” Guardiola insisted.
Haaland has responded positively to Guardiola’s demands, starting the new season in fine form. The 24-year-old striker scored his 10th hat-trick for City during their recent 4-1 win over Ipswich, bringing his tally to four goals in just two games.
Guardiola noted that Haaland’s physical condition has also improved this season. “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,” Guardiola explained.
With a renewed focus on both his physical fitness and defensive contributions, Haaland is poised to continue his prolific form under Guardiola’s guidance. The City boss’s tough love approach is clearly paying off, as Haaland strives to be the complete player that Guardiola demands.
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