Pep Guardiola hits back at Erling Haaland critics following unwanted record

Redaction Willow Austin with Harry Winters
Published on 2024-02-18 13:55:34

After Manchester City’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea, manager Pep Guardiola responded to critics of Erling Haaland. City fell behind in the Premier League title race with the draw, failing to respond to wins from Liverpool and Arsenal.

City’s Rodri scored the equalizer in the 83rd minute after Raheem Sterling’s first-half goal. Despite creating 31 chances and dominating possession, City only managed to score once, with only five attempts on target.

Erling Haaland, who failed to convert any of his nine shots on goal, had a disappointing performance. Guardiola refused to criticize the striker, stating, “I played for 11 years and scored 11 goals. One goal a season. I’m not a proper man to give advice to strikers. We created the chances and next time he’s going to score. I don’t blame him.”

Haaland has only scored twice in his last seven appearances for City, though he has been involved in 21 of the team’s 57 league goals this season.

Despite the draw, Manchester City will look to bounce back when they face Brentford in the midweek. A win over Brentford could see City move above Arsenal and close the gap with Liverpool to just one point.

Guardiola remains confident in Haaland’s abilities and is optimistic that he will get back on the scoresheet. As City prepares to face Brentford, the focus is on turning the missed opportunities into goals and getting back on track in the title race.

Overall, Guardiola remains supportive of Haaland and believes in his ability to make an impact in future games for Manchester City. The team is determined to secure a win in their upcoming match and rekindle their pursuit of the Premier League title.

Read Original article on City Xtra