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Pep Guardiola defends Erling Haaland against criticism, emphasising the striker's importance to Manchester City and downplaying the significance of individual accolades.
Pep Guardiola has come to the defence of Erling Haaland amid recent criticisms, emphasising his crucial role in Manchester City's triumphs and the room for growth in the striker's game.
Guardiola Backs Haaland, Dismisses Ballon d'Or Criticism
In response to Jamie Carragher's critique questioning Erling Haaland's focus on individual accolades versus team success, Pep Guardiola robustly defended the Norwegian striker.
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18:35 - 12.04.2024
We are in big, big trouble — Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola cries out
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said his team are in trouble ahead of a brutal run of games between now and the end of the season.
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14:37 - 12.04.2024
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Guardiola emphasised, "The target is not to win the Ballon d’Or. The target is to win the Premier Leagues, Champions Leagues, FA Cups and Carabao Cups. And he did it. Without him, it would not be possible," he said, per Goal.
Guardiola highlighted Haaland's instrumental role by stating, "What we won in 2023 five titles without him it’s impossible. No chance." Guardiola affirmed his belief in Haaland's potential for improvement based on his desire, age, and increased experience.
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Haaland's Impact and Statistics Despite Criticism
Amidst the criticism surrounding Erling Haaland, the 23-year-old has maintained an impressive performance record, amassing 30 goals and six assists in 37 games across various competitions in the 2023-24 season.
While not reaching the same heights as the previous season, Haaland's contributions remain world-class. Despite a less-than-stellar showing in the recent draw against Real Madrid, Haaland's significance to the team is undeniable, with a potential rest against Luton Town anticipated as City gears up for the second leg against Real Madrid.
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