Erling Haaland can still vividly recall the expectations when he made the switch from Borussia Dortmund to Manchester City. Would it work, the Norwegian striker leading the line in Pep Guardiola's formation? Now, everyone knows the answer to that question.
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When I arrived here, a lot was said about me," Haaland tells L'Équipe. "That it wouldn't work at City because Guardiola prefers to play without a traditional number 9. Well, I think the opposite has been proven by now, and I'm glad about that. I don't follow the media so closely, but I don't live in a cave either. I pick up on things. You know, I can't control what people say or think. I just have to live with it and not worry."
"Then there's the criticism that Haaland doesn't score as often in big games, like in the semi-final and final of last season's Champions League. 'I had already scored a few times that season, haha. The win against Real Madrid was maybe our best game. I could have scored two or three times, but Thibaut Courtois had the game of his life. It's not just about scoring goals. We won and played well. Of course, I'd rather score a hat-trick every week, but the most important thing is that the team wins. I cried for the first time in a long time after we won the Champions League. My biggest dream came true."
"The brain behind City's success is manager Guardiola. Haaland explains how the Spaniard operates. 'The basis is that you are passionate about your job, otherwise, you can't play at the top level. Pep demands a lot from you. There's no room for relaxation with such a demanding coach. Matches are like exams; afterward, he knows whether you prepared well or not. That's our life; we take exams every week. Relaxation is not tolerated. Furthermore, it's essential not to give certain matches more attention because they all count. We can't take it easy on Saturday against the bottom team because we play in the Champions League on Wednesday.'
Truth
'Of course, he's demanding, but he's also straightforward and honest as a coach,' the Norwegian continues. 'To develop and make progress, it's better to hear the harsh truth sometimes. You can say it's tough, but it's what I appreciate. The coach is engaged and passionate. It's not always pleasant, but by telling each other the truth, you also get closer to your goal of becoming a better player.'
The 23-year-old Haaland has scored 58 times in 59 matches in just over a year and has also provided ten assists. Due to his imposing physique and versatility, the striker is sometimes referred to as a 'cyborg.' Haaland laughs about it. 'I know they call me that. I like it.'
Updated: 04:45, 9 Sep 2023
