Erling Haaland's comments earlier this season have taken on new significance as Manchester City prepare for life after Pep Guardiola. The Norwegian striker made clear that Guardiola was neither the reason he joined the club nor why he signed a lengthy contract extension. Haaland agreed a lucrative new deal in January 2025, tying him to the club until 2034, but Guardiola has announced he will leave less than 18 months later, a year ahead of his contract's expiry.
Haaland's Fatherly Advice
During an appearance on The Rest is Football in December, Haaland spoke openly about the guidance he received from his father, Alf-Inge. He explained that Guardiola was not the decisive influence behind his decision to choose City when leaving Borussia Dortmund, though he readily acknowledges the profound impact the Catalan manager has had during his tenure at the Etihad Stadium.
"I remember my father said... 10 years ago, 'Never go to a club because of the manager', which sometimes can be difficult but also you never know what's going to happen in the modern world," Haaland said. He acknowledged that the opportunity to work with Guardiola was a factor, but not the sole consideration.
Guardiola's Work Ethic Praised
When asked about Guardiola as a manager, Haaland highlighted his relentless efforts to improve. "For me, people speak about 'genius', all these kind of things. I think he is kind of a genius but for me, the thing that surprised me - not only surprise - is his hard work. He works harder than everyone, he's the hardest-working in the club, he's the first one to come and the last one to leave. And I think that also is what's taken him so far, his hard work."
Haaland added: "Every single day it's dedication, it's motivation, and also his intense way of seeing football and working with football. Those are the main things but for me, the hard work he puts in every single day."
Guardiola's Departure Confirmed
City officially confirmed Guardiola's departure on Friday, also announcing that he would take on a new role as global ambassador for City Football Group. The news came just days after a draw at Bournemouth ended their chances of winning this season's Premier League title. CEO Ferran Soriano said: "As we celebrate the past, we are also very happy to know that Pep will stay with the Group and we will be able use his knowledge and experience in so many of our other clubs to help managers and players. We will forever be grateful to Pep and cherish so many unforgettable memories. He is a City legend... forever."
This weekend's clash against Aston Villa will be Guardiola's final match in charge. Some have questioned whether Haaland might also seek a new challenge after four years in Manchester, with Barcelona strongly linked as Robert Lewandowski's summer departure leaves room for a new No.9. However, Guardiola's presence was never the deciding factor in Haaland's long-term plans, so any departure is unlikely to hinge on the manager's exit alone.
