Pep Guardiola Delivers Positive Fitness Update on Erling Haaland’s Exceptional Form
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has shared a promising update on Erling Haaland’s fitness, a welcome boost for fans as the Norwegian striker continues his remarkable start to the season. Despite previous struggles with injuries, Haaland is back to top form, scoring an impressive 13 goals in City’s unbeaten streak since the opening game.
The timing of Haaland’s fitness couldn’t be better for City, especially after Julian Alvarez’s summer transfer to Atletico Madrid. Haaland has so far avoided the minor injuries that interrupted his consistency last season, including a foot injury that sidelined him over the festive period. Reflecting on the striker’s current health, Guardiola said Haaland is feeling “[much better] than he did during his first season with the club.”
“I have the feeling this season that he feels better, recovers better,” Guardiola explained. “He’s an incredible professional in that respect, he takes care really well…he feels really, really, really good in those terms.”
Guardiola also mentioned Haaland’s full summer break as a significant factor in his current form. “[He didn’t have the Euros], unfortunately for him and for Norway, but it meant he had one and a half months of rest and a great preparation. He had incredible people helping him here with exactly what he needs,” Guardiola added.
Notably, Guardiola pointed out Haaland’s increased focus and resilience this season: “He’s more focused than ever on what he has to do every three days. After games last season, he was so exhausted and needed time to recover…But now, he says, ‘No, I feel good, I feel good.’”
With other attacking options limited, including Phil Foden, who’s just regaining form, and Oscar Bobb, who’s out with a broken leg until early 2025, Haaland has become an even more essential piece in Guardiola’s plans. “[Oscar is not here yet, and Phil is getting better], so right now he’s a really, really important piece in our team,” Guardiola affirmed.
Foden’s return has been gradual, overcoming fitness and illness setbacks, and he’s currently thriving in his preferred No. 10 role. Meanwhile, the absence of Oscar Bobb until next year has only further solidified Haaland’s role as City’s go-to frontman.
With Haaland feeling stronger than ever, City fans have every reason to feel optimistic as their star striker continues his goal-scoring spree.
