Guardiola praises Haaland, the Norwegian receives positive comments even from opponents
Erling Haaland scored two more goals to take his Premier League tally to 13 this season in Manchester City’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth, a performance that left his manager and opponents speechless.
City manager Pep Guardiola was full of enthusiasm as he described Haaland’s first goal, a relentless run from half-time, finished with characteristic precision.
“It’s that first goal, the way he hit the ball towards the ground. It was like saying, ‘I’m going to score this.’ It was that determination,” said Guardiola, who hugged his prized striker as they left the pitch.
When asked if Haaland could be compared to top scorers Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Guardiola laughed:
“Did you see that guy’s numbers? Oh my God, of course you did. The difference is that Cristiano and Messi have 15 years more career (than Haaland).”
Guardiola praised the 25-year-old not only for his goals but also for his attitude.
“Sometimes I’m tough on him. I tell him to do this or that better, and he always accepts it with an open mind. There are players who react ‘What are you saying?’, but he’s down to earth,” Guardiola said.
“You know, without him it would be difficult, honestly. We are lucky to have an extraordinary person, because he is the sweetest and kindest man. And he will improve even more. As a player, his statistics are extraordinary.”
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola admitted that Haaland’s presence completely changes the way opponents have to play:
“He’s very difficult to play against,” said Iraola, whose team suffered their first defeat in nine league games. “He’s amazing. When he presses higher and leaves space behind, he’s incredibly fast.”
Bournemouth midfielder David Brooks was of the same opinion:
“That big player up front – Haaland – is always a threat,” Brooks said. “It’s almost impossible to prepare against him. He’s 1.95m tall, powerful, a huge threat whenever the ball comes his way. He took his chances perfectly.”
