Pep Guardiola compared Erling Haaland to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo after seeing the Manchester City striker score in a 2-0 win over Chelsea.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Man City beat Chelsea to open seasonHaaland scores 91st goal for Man CityGuardiola compares him with Ronaldo and MessiGettyWHAT HAPPENED?
Despite not enjoying their usual dominance in the first half at Stamford Bridge, Manchester City took the lead thanks to Haaland's quick footwork under pressure and ruthless finishing as he dinked the ball past Robert Sanchez from close range. The Norwegian has now scored 91 goals in all competitions for the eight-time Premier League champions and Guardiola believes that Haaland is now matching the scoring exploits of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
AdvertisementGettyWHAT GUARDIOLA SAID
Speaking to the media after the 2-0 win over Chelsea, Guardiola said: "He has the numbers for Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who controlled the last decade, 15 years, absolutely everything. In terms of numbers, it is that level. So, I don't know how he does it, but in 100 games scoring 91 goals is something in the Premier League, in this country, is unbelievable."
The City boss added: "I had a feeling that he feels better than last season at this stage. After travel last season, he felt a bit 'mmm-mmm' [so-so] or felt he was tired. This season, I think for the Euros unfortunately Norway was not there, there was more rest and yeah, he feels good.
"The goal was magnificent. His contribution is in many things. He had two or three chances and always I had the feeling there is a gap to improve as a football player."
Getty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Haaland has won the Premier League Golden Boot for the last two seasons and despite the insane numbers he has posted since his move to Manchester City in 2022, one thing he has always been targeted for has been his lack of involvement in general play. Guardiola has even recognised that weakness, and Haaland has revealed that he is going to keep aiming to improve in all departments other than just goalscoring.
WHAT NEXT FOR HAALAND?
Manchester City will play their first home game of the Premier League season when they take on newly promoted Ipswich Town on Saturday, August 24 as they will look to make it two wins from two.
