Erling Haaland Breaks Silence Amid Manchester City’s Struggles
Erling Haaland has dismissed claims that Pep Guardiola’s transfer decisions over the summer are to blame for Manchester City‘s alarming dip in form. Speaking after a crushing 4-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, the Norwegian striker made it clear that the squad’s recent struggles cannot be pinned on the club’s limited activity in the transfer market.
City’s latest loss at the Etihad marks their fifth consecutive defeat in all competitions. The slump began with setbacks against Bournemouth, Sporting Lisbon, and Brighton & Hove Albion, and was compounded by a League Cup exit at the hands of Spurs, who dealt another blow in Saturday’s league clash.
“Not About Transfers,” Says Haaland
When questioned by Telemundo about whether City’s lack of signings—limited to Ilkay Gundogan and Savio in the summer—has hurt the team, Haaland was unequivocal:
“No, we still create a lot of chances, we still score goals, so I’m not worried about anything. Of course, people leave, people come in. It’s new players to get to know and get the chemistry with, so of course, things change. But I think that’s just positive to get new faces in and to get other people to play football with.”
Despite starting the season in sensational form, scoring 10 goals in the first five Premier League matches, Haaland has found the net just twice in his last seven league games. Yet, he remains the league’s top scorer with 12 goals from 12 appearances.
Injuries Hampering City’s Form
City’s decline coincides with a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury to Rodri, suffered during a 2-2 draw against Arsenal. Haaland acknowledged the impact of injuries but refused to use them as an excuse:
“Of course, we’ve been suffering with a lot of injuries and everything. But in the end, no matter who plays, you have to do your best for the team and the club. That’s what matters. We try to get through it together, and when the injured players come back, we’ll do our best.”
Crunch Time Ahead
City now face a defining week, with a crucial Champions League fixture against Feyenoord followed by a trip to Anfield to meet league leaders Liverpool. The Reds, under manager Arne Slot, lead City by eight points after an almost flawless start to the season. A Liverpool win could widen the gap to 11 points, leaving Guardiola’s men with a mountain to climb.
Haaland’s Optimism Unshaken
Despite the setbacks, Haaland expressed confidence in his teammates and their ability to bounce back:
“In the end, we try to get through it together. We’re ready to fight and turn this around. That’s what we do at City.”
As City fans prepare for a pivotal week, the team will need every ounce of Haaland’s belief and Guardiola’s tactical genius to reignite their season.
