WHAT HAPPENED?
Despite not having their usual first-half dominance at Stamford Bridge, Manchester City took the lead thanks to Haaland’s agility under pressure, who managed to place a perfect shot beyond Robert Sanchez. The Norwegian has now scored 91 goals in all competitions for the Premier League champions on eight occasions, and Guardiola believes Haaland could reach the levels previously shown by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
WHAT GUARDIOLA SAID
Speaking to the media after the 2-0 win over Chelsea, Guardiola said: “He has the numbers of Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who controlled the last decade, 15 years, absolutely everything,” Guardiola said. “In terms of numbers, he is at 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, it’s incredible.
“I had the feeling that he feels better than last season at this stage. After the travels last season, he felt a bit ‘mmm-mmm’ [so-so] or he felt like he was tired. This season, I think for the Euros, unfortunately Norway wasn’t there, he had more rest and yes, he feels good.
“The goal was magnificent. He contributed in many ways. He had two or three chances and I always had the feeling that there is room for improvement as a footballer.”
THE BIG PICTURE
Haaland has won the Premier League Golden Boot for the past two seasons, and despite the unnatural numbers he has put up since his move to Manchester City in 2022, one thing he has always been criticised for has been his involvement in the team outside of goals. Guardiola himself has pointed out that the Norwegian needs to be more involved in the game, and Haaland has revealed that he is going to continue looking to improve in all aspects, not just scoring.
WHAT’S 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 24 August, looking to make it two wins from two games.
