Guardiola Prefers Haaland Over Isak: Debate in World Football

Guardiola Responds to Slot: Haaland Above Isak

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, in contrast, placed Erling Haaland, Manchester City striker, “a little above.” Slot made these statements on Friday, anticipating Isak’s possible debut with Liverpool following his arrival, with a transfer that marked a record in British football from Newcastle United. Guardiola, however, emphasized that he wouldn’t swap Haaland for Isak.

“A little bit above. Isak is an exceptional player [but] they asked me about Erling and he is top. Isak must be a top player for what they paid. But another would say [[Kylian] Mbappé], [[Lionel] Messi], [Cristiano [Ronaldo]]. I wouldn’t trade Erling for anyone”.

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 City’s goal, after his signing from Paris Saint-Germain. The Italian goalkeeper arrives after the departure of Ederson, who joined Fenerbahce. However, Donnarumma is not known for his skill with his feet, something that made Ederson an integral part of City’s success during his eight years under Guardiola’s management. The City coach commented that he does not expect Donnarumma to match Ederson’s footwork.

“I always try to adapt to the quality of the players… 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 did. Gigi has another quality”.

Pep Guardiola

Guardiola highlighted 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 be involved. You may not believe it, but they will be.” The City will look to resume their season this weekend after defeats in their last two outings.