Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola believes that Erling Haaland is not yet at his best despite scoring a brace in their 3-1 win over Leeds. Rodri had given City the lead in first-half stoppage time, but despite Pascal Struijk’s late header for Leeds, the outcome was never in doubt thanks to two goals from Haaland in the second half. Since joining City from Dortmund in the summer, Norway’s Haaland has scored 26 goals in 20 games across all competitions, including 20 in 14 Premier League games.
“Despite his missed opportunities, his numbers are amazing,” Pep Guardiola said about Erling Haaland. “He poses a tremendous threat to us and is quite adept at being in the ideal spot at the ideal time. Because of the injury, I believe he is still not performing at his best. It is difficult for him to move his enormous body, but as long as he can play for more minutes, he will get better.”
Haaland, who transferred to City from Borussia Dortmund in June for £52.1 million, was reportedly still dealing with a foot injury he acquired during his team’s goalless Champions League tie with his old team in October, according to Guardiola.
“He doesn’t seem to be at his best, in my opinion. It will happen in due time. Always posing a serious danger to the opposition,” he added. “Of course, we are thrilled, but he struggles a little bit because of the extra pace he had at the start of the season. Although he was sharper in the beginning of the season, I am still more than satisfied. He is improving and is a fantastic professional. He looks after his physical and mental health.”
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