Pep Guardiola has sent a stark warning to Premier League rivals, declaring Erling Haaland is in even better shape than at this stage last season. The Manchester City striker scored twice in a 5-3 pre-season victory over Yokohama Marinos in Tokyo, showcasing the form that made him the league's top scorer.
Haaland, who netted 52 goals in his debut season as City won the Treble, came off the bench at half-time to score within six minutes and added a second in injury time. Guardiola said: 'Compared to this period last season, Erling is fitter now than when he arrived. He looks good.' The Norwegian's arrival drew the biggest cheer from the 61,618 crowd at the National Stadium.
The manager also confirmed that Kevin De Bruyne is close to returning after a hamstring injury sustained in the Champions League final. 'Kevin feels much, much better. He is so close and he is coming back soon,' Guardiola added, a boost for Haaland who struggled for goals late last season, scoring just once in his final eight appearances.
City trailed 2-0 early on but equalised through John Stones and Julian Alvarez before half-time. Guardiola made 10 changes at the break, and Haaland's double, along with a 30-yard strike from Rodri, sealed the win. Yokohama pulled one back via Kenta Inoue after a defensive mix-up, but Haaland had the final word, tapping in a cross from Joao Cancelo.
Guardiola praised Haaland's understanding of the team's rhythm, stating: 'We know exactly what he has to do. In a few weeks he will be in better condition than now.' The performance has set an ominous tone for Premier League defences ahead of the new campaign.
