Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has opened up about the recent struggles of star striker Erling Haaland, admitting the Norwegian has been “suffering” during a rare run without goals.
Guardiola: Haaland ‘Suffering’ During Goal Drought
Haaland has failed to score from open play in his last eight Premier League matches. Guardiola confirmed the prolific forward puts intense pressure on himself during such periods.
“He’s suffering when he doesn’t score a goal,” Guardiola stated.
“He’s calm but he puts pressure on himself. He knows how much we need him and he doesn’t want to leave the team disappointed. That is a big attribute.”
The manager emphasized that this self-critical nature is preferable to indifference, praising Haaland’s committed mindset.
The 23-year-old briefly silenced concerns with a crucial 91st-minute penalty against Liverpool last Sunday, calmly securing a vital comeback win for City.
Guardiola highlighted the mental strength that moment required. “Anfield, 91, 92 minutes… His body language, his eyes, there was fire there. That defines the good players.”
The coach directly linked Haaland’s dip to a demanding schedule. “He admits that he’s tired, a little bit down. It’s just one reason – it’s the calendar.”
Despite the recent dry spell, Guardiola stressed City’s title challenge relies heavily on Haaland’s earlier contributions, noting the team’s position “without Erling would not be possible.”
He also urged perspective on the young striker’s development. “Erling, we cannot forget, he’s not 29, 30 years old, he’s young. It’s part of the process.”
With City competing on four fronts, Guardiola offered simple advice to his number nine: rely on instinct.
“Don’t put too much pressure. Go there and rely on your instinct, rely on your movement… Your instinct and your gut are better than anyone in the world.”
Haaland remains the Premier League’s top scorer this season, but Guardiola acknowledged the ongoing challenge is managing his own sky-high expectations.
