Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola has expressed his opinion on the statement by Liverpool coach Arne Slot, who described Alexander Isak as “perhaps the best striker in the world.” Guardiola, however, positions Erling Haaland, Manchester City striker, “a little above.”
Slot made complimentary comments about Isak on Friday, anticipating his possible debut with Liverpool following his arrival for a record fee for British football from Newcastle United.
“A little above. Isak is an exceptional player [but] you asked me about Erling and he is top. Isak must be a top player for what they paid. But another would say Mbappé, Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo. I wouldn’t trade Erling for anyone,” Guardiola declared.
Pep Guardiola
Haaland comes into Sunday’s Premier League clash against Manchester United in good form, having scored five goals for Norway in midweek.The match on Sunday could mark Gianluigi Donnarumma’s debut in goal, following his arrival at the team.
The Italian goalkeeper arrived after Ederson’s departure to Fenerbahce. However, Donnarumma is not known for his distribution, something that made Ederson an integral part of City’s success in his eight years under Guardiola’s direction.
Guardiola, however, does not expect Donnarumma to match Ederson’s footwork. “I always try to adapt to the quality of the players,” Guardiola said. “I wouldn’t ask ‘Gigi’ to do something he’s not comfortable with. We’re talking about the best goalkeeper I’ve seen with distribution, short and long passes, in Ederson. We didn’t sign Gigi to do what Ederson has done. Gigi has another quality.”
The City coach also spoke highly of the strengths of his new signing. “He’s very tall. He’s huge,” Guardiola said with a smile, adding: “He’s a great presence on the big stages. What he did in the Champions League last season at Villa Park, Anfield, many games, shows how good he is.”
The arrival of Donnarumma has also raised questions about James Trafford’s situation.
The 22-year-old player, who rejoined the club in the summer, has been a starter in City’s three matches so far this season.
“He’s a Man City goalkeeper. I can only put one goalkeeper,” Guardiola said. “The season is very long, everyone will participate. You may not believe it, but they will.”
The City will look to boost their season this weekend after defeats in their last two outings.
