Pep Guardiola has labelled Erling Haaland “the best striker in the world” ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League showdown with Liverpool, shutting down any suggestion that the Norwegian could be dropped for Sunday’s clash at Anfield.
Haaland was rested from the starting XI in midweek as City booked their place in the Carabao Cup final with a 3–1 second leg win over Newcastle United, but Guardiola made clear his standing within the squad remains unchanged.
Guardiola dismisses Haaland rotation talk
City completed the job against Newcastle without Haaland from the start, with Omar Marmoush scoring twice and Tijjani Reijnders also on target before Anthony Elanga grabbed a late consolation.
Haaland was introduced in the second half at the Etihad Stadium, but by that point the tie was already settled. Marmoush’s display led Guardiola to be asked whether the Egyptian could now start ahead of Haaland at Anfield.
The City manager’s response was emphatic.
“Erling is the best striker in the world,” — Pep Guardiola
Guardiola declined to confirm his starting XI for Sunday but repeated the point when pressed further, leaving little doubt over his faith in the 25-year-old.
Haaland still leading the numbers
Despite a brief goal drought, Haaland continues to set the benchmark statistically. He has scored 20 goals in 24 Premier League appearances this season and added seven more in eight Champions League matches, once again topping City’s scoring charts.
The striker has not found the net in his last three outings against Manchester United, Wolves and Tottenham, but Guardiola has shown no concern about a short-term dip in output.
With Liverpool next up, Haaland will have the chance to respond on one of the league’s biggest stages.
Focus remains on Liverpool test
City travel to Anfield knowing the fixture could shape the title race, with Guardiola expected to lean on his most reliable attacking weapon despite midweek rotation.
The Catalan coach was also asked about speculation surrounding his own future, with rumours suggesting this season could be his last at the Etihad.
Guardiola, whose contract runs until 2027, offered little clarity.
“I have one more year on my contract,” — Pep Guardiola
Key Insights
- Guardiola called Haaland “the best striker in the world”
- Haaland was rested in the Carabao Cup semi-final
- Marmoush impressed but has not displaced Haaland
- The Norwegian has 27 goals in all competitions this season
- Guardiola remained non-committal on his own future
What’s Next
Manchester City now turn their full attention to Sunday’s trip to Liverpool, where Haaland is expected to play a central role as City look to maintain momentum on multiple fronts. Guardiola’s selection decisions, and Haaland’s response to recent scrutiny, will be closely watched at Anfield.
Should Guardiola stick rigidly with Haaland at Anfield, or has Marmoush earned a genuine case to start alongside him?
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