Guardiola backs star striker Erling Haaland after missed chances against Chelsea

Pep Guardiola refused to blame Erling Haaland for wasting chances after Manchester City were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Chelsea on Saturday. 

Haaland, typically known for his prolific goal-scoring, missed several chances, including a glaring free header from six yards out. 

The Champions had to rely on an 83rd-minute equalizer from Rodri to salvage a point after their former forward, Raheem Sterling, had earlier put the Londoners in line for an unexpected victory with a well-taken effort in the first half. 

City manager Guardiola said: “It’s good to have nine shots and next time he’s going to score."

“I was a football player for 11 years and scored 11 goals. What stats! One goal a season. I’m not a proper man to give advice to strikers. 

“We create the chances, he had the chances, and next time he’s going to score. I don’t blame him. It’s football, it’s human beings.”

City welcome Brentford to the Etihad next as they aim to keep pressure on Liverpool at the top.