Manchester City’s season has taken an unexpected turn, but one thing remains clear: Pep Guardiola stands firmly behind Erling Haaland.
As the Norwegian striker endures his most difficult period since arriving in England, Guardiola has offered his unwavering support, insisting the team must do more to unlock his potential.
Haaland has started the season in unstoppable form, scoring 10 goals in his first five Premier League matches. However, the goals have dried up in recent weeks, with just one in their last six league matches.
His dip in personal form has coincided with City’s dramatic decline, leaving them seventh in the table and far from the imperious team that dominated last season.
Guardiola, however, refuses to place the blame on Haaland’s shoulders. “It’s about us, not just one player,” the City boss said. “When Erling was so prolific, it was about us, about the team. It is very important to us, but we need to use it better.
Haaland’s struggles are emblematic of the wider problems within Guardiola’s squad. The fluidity and creativity that once defined City has waned, leaving Haaland isolated and deprived of opportunities. Guardiola admitted that a combination of factors big and small contributed to their slowdown.
“The guys are running more than ever, but there are many details that make us less good than before,” he explained.
The city manager made it clear that solving these problems would require a collective effort. Ahead of their Boxing Day clash with Everton, Guardiola stressed the importance of solidarity in getting back on track. Training sessions, even on Christmas Day, are part of this process.
“We’ll stay here and play Boxing Day,” he said. “It’s our job, it’s our duty. I hope the players want to be here because it is crucial that we get back to our best.
Haaland, for his part, continues to work tirelessly and Guardiola is adamant that the striker’s goals will return. “Erling is so important to us and will be so important to us,” he said, reaffirming his confidence in the 24-year-old.
As City prepare to face an Everton side buoyed by recent results, the spotlight remains on Haaland.
For Guardiola, however, the focus is not on the individual but on the collective effort required to return Manchester City to their former heights. With his support, Haaland could still lead the charge to turn things around.
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