Erling Haaland is having another strong season at Manchester City and Pep Guardiola has repeated the requirements he demands from his striker.
There is no current striker in the Premier League on Erling Haaland’s level. The Manchester City forward’s overall game is simply magnificent, from his goalscoring abilities to his excellent movement.
The news that Haaland is fit to face Newcastle is therefore music to Pep Guardiola’s ears, as the Norweigen could play a key role in the important game.
Haaland will aim to match his usual high standards and he is in good form, having registered four goal contributions in his three most recent Premier League appearances.
Erling Haaland will continue to play as a striker
Despite Haaland’s impressive displays at the heart of City’s attack, the media have taken it upon themselves to suggest he would benefit from a position change.
Pep Guardiola was asked if the 25-year-old may need the challenge of a different role, but the manager was quick to state exactly how he felt.
He replied: “No, the role is being close to goal and score. This is the role. Moving right, left, shape to be a little more open or more close? This depends on him.”
Aiming to see the humorous side of the question, Guardiola added: “I’m not going to tell Erling to play left-back, that’s for sure.”
Man City have no need to switch Haaland’s position
Savinho has been declared fit ahead of Man City’s next Premier League game which adds another wing option. Therefore, there is no real reason for Haaland to be moved around.
The talisman is delivering on a weekly basis as a centre forward and this is where it seems he will remain for the foreseeable future.
Guardiola has hinted that he would consider giving Haaland a new challenge if it was requested by the player himself, but he is unlikely to want a move away from his preferred role.
