“Haaland’s Red-Hot Form Keeps City Flying High as Guardiola Keeps Tabs on Premier League Goal Machine Isak”
Erling Haaland’s explosive start to the 2024/25 season continues to underline just how vital the Norwegian striker is to Manchester City. With 15 goals in all competitions already, Haaland’s form remains a rare bright spot for the reigning Premier League champions amid recent challenges.
Despite a tough stretch, as admitted by Bernardo Silva, who stated the team “needed the international break,” Haaland’s consistency stands out. He recently showcased his brilliance on the international stage, contributing a goal and an assist in Norway’s 3-1 win over Slovenia.
Adding to the excitement, reports suggest Haaland is in line for a new contract that could see him earn a staggering £500,000 per week, further cementing his place as a cornerstone of City’s attack.
City Monitoring Alexander Isak as Future Prospect
While Haaland remains the focal point, Manchester City are reportedly keeping a close eye on Newcastle United’s number nine, Alexander Isak, as a potential future addition.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey revealed:
“Arsenal and Chelsea are very much on him. City and Liverpool are keeping tabs because they respect the fact that he’s an awesome player. A lot of teams think that Isak is one of the very, very best.”
Bailey added that City’s scouting efforts are part of their long-term planning:
“City are doing their homework on potential replacements, not because they think Haaland will leave, but because you have to know who’s next best. Isak is Premier League-proven and highly thought of.”
Isak’s Stats and Impact
At 25, Isak has established himself as one of the league’s top strikers. While this season he has scored four goals in nine starts for Newcastle, his performances last season were exceptional, with 21 league goals in 27 starts—a tally surpassed only by Haaland (27) and Cole Palmer (22).
The Swedish striker also impressed during the international break, contributing a goal and an assist in Sweden’s 2-1 victory over Slovakia.
Guardiola’s High Praise for Isak
City’s interest in Isak isn’t new. In January, Pep Guardiola openly admired the striker during Manchester City’s ‘Matchday Live’ show, saying:
“The impact that he has had since arriving [in England] has been really, really good. He has the conditions to be an incredible striker with his speed, his finishing. At Real Sociedad, we started to follow him, and we were impressed. He was a target, and I think he adapted really, really well in the Premier League.”
Guardiola’s comments further fuel speculation that Isak could one day don the Sky Blue jersey, especially if circumstances surrounding Haaland ever change.
What’s Next for City?
For now, Haaland remains the priority, with City focused on securing his long-term future. However, their interest in Alexander Isak reflects a forward-thinking approach, ensuring they remain prepared for any scenario.
With Guardiola’s admiration for the Swedish star and Isak’s proven ability, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Newcastle forward becomes a serious target in the years to come.
