Pep Guardiola has urged Erling Haaland not to place excessive pressure on himself to score goals, despite the striker's recent dip in form. The Manchester City manager spoke after Haaland's stoppage-time penalty secured a 2-1 victory over Liverpool on Sunday, which was only his third goal in ten appearances and just one from open play during that period.
Haaland, who has 28 goals in 36 appearances this season, admitted after the match that he needs to improve his output and dismissed fatigue as a factor. However, Guardiola stressed the 25-year-old's overall contribution to the team, noting that City's position in the Premier League and Champions League would not have been possible without him. 'We cannot forget he's not 29, 30 years old; he's young and it's part of the process,' Guardiola said.
The manager praised Haaland's composure in converting the penalty at Anfield, describing the moment as a test of character. 'His body language, in his eyes there was fire there, and it's not easy. That defines the good players,' Guardiola added. He attributed any tiredness or low mood in the squad to the demanding calendar rather than individual performances.
Guardiola also provided an update on defender Abdukodir Khusanov, who was substituted late in the match with a suspected concussion. Tests later confirmed no concussion, and the 21-year-old Uzbek is expected to be available for the upcoming fixture against Fulham. Despite Khusanov's limited English, Guardiola insisted communication is not an issue, praising the player's intelligence and decision-making.
