Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says Erling Haaland puts “pressure on himself” to consistently score because he “desperately wants to help the team”.
The Norway international has been prolific for City since joining them from Borussia Dortmund in 2022 for £52.1m.
He scored 52 goals in all competitions in his first season as City won the Treble of the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.
The 25-year-old has scored 28 goals in all competitions this season and is the Premier League’s leading scorer – but went into Sunday’s match against Liverpool with just two goals in his previous 10 games.
However, he scored a 93rd-minute penalty to complete a 2-1 comeback and keep City in the hunt for the Premier League title.
“He is calm, but he puts pressure on himself – he knows how much we need him,” Guardiola said.
“He doesn’t want to leave the team disappointed – that is a big attribute.
“I would prefer that to somebody who doesn’t care. He’s completely the opposite, he suffers when he doesn’t score a goal.
“Don’t suffer, you do your best. Run with the team and the rest is not important.”
Guardiola’s side host Fulham on Wednesday and victory would result in City cutting Premier League leaders Arsenal’s advantage to three points, before the Gunners travel to Brentford on Thursday.
In addition to scoring the winner against Liverpool Haaland also provided the assist for Bernardo Silva’s equaliser, with delighted father Alfie watching from the stands.
“The problem with Erling is that he has to deal with his own numbers and expectations,” Guardiola added.
“I always say to him not to put too much pressure [on himself].
“He puts a lot of responsibility on himself. He is a guy who desperately wants to help the team and the club.”
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Source: www.myjoyonline.com
