Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has challenged his attacking players to show greater instinct inside the penalty area as Erling Haaland endures a difficult scoring run.
The Norwegian striker has scored just four goals in 16 appearances during 2026, a noticeable slowdown for a player widely considered one of the most prolific finishers in world football. City’s recent 3–0 defeat to Real Madrid in the Champions League highlighted some of the attacking issues Guardiola wants to address.
Despite Haaland’s reputation, Guardiola believes the responsibility for improving City’s finishing extends across the entire attacking unit.
Pep Guardiola demands sharper attacking movement
Speaking after the midweek Champions League defeat, Guardiola stressed that Manchester City must do more to support Haaland in dangerous areas.
“Of course he needs goals. The team needs it and he needs it. We have to find him more.” — Pep Guardiola
The City manager also emphasised that attackers must anticipate crosses and attacking situations earlier.
“The players in the box have to make a movement before the pass, to smell where the ball will go. You make a movement, beat your man before the ball is played and you will score.” — Pep Guardiola
Guardiola described the mentality required for those situations in simple terms.
“It’s guts and nose, that is the question for them. That is all.” — Pep Guardiola
Manchester City attackers asked to improve presence in the box
Guardiola pointed to several moments in the Champions League match against Real Madrid where Manchester City created opportunities but lacked runners in the penalty area to convert them.
According to the manager, better movement before the ball arrives could significantly increase the team’s chances of scoring.
Based on recent matches we have covered involving Manchester City, wide players such as Jeremy Doku have often delivered dangerous crosses but without consistent attacking runs to finish the moves.
However, Guardiola believes those details can improve with repetition and tactical focus.
Antoine Semenyo praised for attacking instincts
One player who has impressed Guardiola with his movement inside the penalty area is Antoine Semenyo following his mid season arrival from Bournemouth.
The 26 year old has scored seven goals in 11 starts since joining Manchester City and many of them have come from arriving in the right position inside the box.
"That’s why Antoine is really, really good. He loves to arrive in the box."
Guardiola also highlighted how supporting runners can create space for teammates. For example, full backs or midfielders arriving late into the area can distract defenders and open opportunities for other attackers.
Key Insights
- Pep Guardiola wants Manchester City attackers to improve movement in the penalty area.
- Erling Haaland has scored four goals in 16 matches during 2026.
- Guardiola believes the whole team must contribute to creating chances.
- Antoine Semenyo has impressed with seven goals in 11 starts.
- City struggled to convert chances against Real Madrid in the Champions League.
What’s Next
Manchester City return to Premier League action this weekend before preparing for the second leg of their Champions League tie against Real Madrid. Guardiola will likely focus on improving attacking movement and efficiency in front of goal during training sessions ahead of the upcoming fixtures. Much will depend on whether City can rediscover their scoring rhythm during this crucial phase of the season.
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *