Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has backed Erling Haaland as the top striker in world football, placing him just above Alexander Isak.
His comments come after Liverpool manager Arne Slot suggested that his record signing could be the best in the game.
Liverpool’s Record-Breaking Signing
Liverpool made headlines on deadline day by sealing a British-record £125 million ($169m) move for Swedish forward Alexander Isak from Newcastle. The 25-year-old could feature for the Reds this Sunday when they face Burnley.
Slot wasted no time in praising his new star, describing Isak as a striker with world-class ability. However, Guardiola was quick to highlight Haaland’s unmatched record during a press conference on Friday.
Haaland vs. Isak: The Numbers
Since signing for City in 2022, Haaland has netted 88 goals in just 100 Premier League games, spearheading two league triumphs alongside Champions League and FA Cup glory.
By contrast, Isak joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad in 2022 and scored 54 times in 86 league appearances. He was instrumental in Newcastle’s League Cup victory, their first major trophy in over half a century.
Guardiola drew a clear line when asked to compare the pair:
“Erling is a little above. Isak is excellent, but Haaland is exceptional. I know him well, and I wouldn’t trade him for anyone.”
He also noted that Isak’s huge transfer fee shows his quality but maintained that Haaland remains his standout choice ahead of names like Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo.
City’s Derby Test
Manchester City’s focus now shifts to the derby clash against Manchester United this weekend. The champions are looking to bounce back after consecutive losses to Tottenham and Brighton. Defensive issues and injuries have complicated their campaign after finishing third last season.
The squad is also adjusting to a change between the posts. Gianluigi Donnarumma was signed from PSG to replace Ederson, who joined Fenerbahce after eight years at the Etihad.
Guardiola praised Donnarumma’s strengths while stressing he won’t be asked to mimic Ederson’s playing style:
“Gigi is tall, powerful, and very imposing. I’ll use his qualities, not force him into roles he’s uncomfortable with.”
It remains unclear whether Donnarumma or James Trafford will start against United.
Building Momentum
Despite the setbacks, Guardiola remains optimistic:
“We’ve added 10 new players in a short space of time. It takes patience to find balance. We are progressing well, and consistency will come. Step by step, we’ll get there,” he said.
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