Erling Haaland’s heroics prompt unusual praise from Pep Guardiola; blasts Manchester City’s first half performance

City struggled in the first half against Everton, failing to register a shot for the first time since August 2021.

February 10, 2024

Pep Guardiola praises Erling Haaland — Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images

City faced difficulty breaking Everton’s defence and didn’t manage a shot in the opening half, a first since August 2021. Nonetheless, two clinical goals from Haaland, making his first start at Etihad Stadium in two months, secured their 10th consecutive victory across all competitions.

Guardiola commented on their lacklustre first-half performance, emphasizing the importance of positive attitudes in football. He urged his players to maintain positivity and adapt to challenges, highlighting the need for resilience in tough situations. The team responded in the second half by increasing their attacking intensity and cohesion, with the substitutes making impactful contributions.

Reflecting on Haaland’s return after a two-month injury layoff, Guardiola expressed admiration for the striker’s resilience and physical condition. He encouraged Haaland to remain optimistic and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Haaland’s remarkable finishing skills underscored his significance to the team, especially after his injury hiatus.

Haaland’s absence due to injury didn’t significantly hinder City’s performance, except for a draw against Crystal Palace. However, his return highlighted his pivotal role in strengthening the team’s attacking prowess.

Haaland’s achievement of scoring 50 goals in his first 50 Premier League starts is unprecedented, marking his prolific impact on the league.

With the Premier League title race intensifying, City now shift focus to defending their Champions League title. They face Copenhagen in the last-16 first leg before a crucial Premier League encounter against Chelsea.