Don't be like Thierry Henry - Mikel Obi advises Haaland to be a man when called upon

Haaland has found it difficult to find the back of the net in the last few weeks, with his goal drought extending to the game against Bournemouth.

The 24-year-old Manchester City forward scored 30 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions this season but did not score in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace.

Manchester City lost the cup final 1-0, which means they will end the current campaign without any trophies.

According to Mikel, Haaland lacks the necessary desire to make a significant impact in important matches. 

Speaking on the ObiOne podcast, he said, “I've said what I had to say about Haaland. I think he's Manchester City's main man with Kevin De Bruyne leaving. He has a nine-year contract, which means they want to build the team around him.

“Pep believes in him, and we know what an amazing footballer is when it comes to goals. He's the best finisher in world football today, there's no doubt about it, but can he do it in the big games?

“Can he do it in the semi-finals, in the finals? He's not done it so far for City in those big games. The penalty was an opportunity to shut everybody up to score in a big game, but he didn't take it.”

The ex-Super Eagles captain stated that a lack of performance in crucial matches slightly blemishes the record of even one of the Premier League's all-time greats.

“When people ask me about the best-ever player to have graced the Premier League, I always say Thierry Henry, but you know what they come back with. Has he ever scored in a cup final? He never did with Arsenal, and you can't argue that.

“So for me, Haaland should shut people up and take responsibility in the big games. Drogba will not pass a penalty to anyone else in a big game, nor will Lampard. That was my only argument: Haaland should've stepped up. You're the man.

“They believe in you, they trust you, and when it's time to repay them, you pass on the responsibility. I hope he takes it next time,” Mikel Obi concluded.

Manchester City risks failing to qualify for next season's UEFA Champions League if they do not win their final game of the season, potentially worsening their situation.