Pep Guardiola believes Erling Haaland is better now than he was a year ago in an ominous warning for his rivals leading into next season.
Speaking after Manchester City’s 5-3 win over Yokohama F.Marinos in Japan, the City boss spoke of Haaland’s improvements over the past year at the club.
Guess who’s back? 👀
👉 @ErlingHaaland 👈 pic.twitter.com/eGpKk9j7uV
— Manchester City (@ManCity) July 23, 2023
“Comparing last season and that period, he is much fitter, much better than last season when he arrived. I know we would love his form to be like last season. But it’s not the point, the point is no injuries. He looks good, but he is still a long way from the best condition like everyone.”
Guardiola added: “Of course, it is important for him to score two goals in the first game because last season in the last games he could not score. Important is the rhythm, the principles, the concepts we are working with all the time. Get it as best as possible.”
City’s Norwegian marksman has hit the ground running this pre-season. He scored twice against the J-League side after coming on at halftime. He scored his first seven minutes after coming off the bench and added a second in injury time to round out the win.
If Erling Haaland has improved his game, it will be an ominous sign to City’s rivals as they prepare for their treble defense next season. After scoring 52 goals last season, and breaking a multitude of records, if Haaland improves Manchester City will take some stopping next season.
