After Haaland’s new deal, he could retire as one of the all-time football greats
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has drawn comparisons between Erling Haaland’s goalscoring exploits and those of footballing legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
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The comments came after Haaland signed a groundbreaking nine-and-a-half-year contract extension with the club, securing his future at the Etihad Stadium until the 2033/34 season.
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Guardiola’s high praise for Haaland
Haaland’s remarkable record at City—111 goals in 126 appearances—has already placed him among the elite in football, and Guardiola believes the Norwegian’s hunger for goals mirrors that of Messi and Ronaldo.
Man City are reportedly targeting Omar Marmoush as Erling Haaland’s backup (Credit: Imago)
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Guardiola expressed his excitement over Haaland’s long-term commitment, saying, “It is exceptional news for all of us. When one player signs this kind of contract that’s never been done before, it shows how much he wants to be here.”
When asked to compare Haaland to Messi, Guardiola highlighted their shared appetite for goals but was quick to clarify the unique qualities of each player.
Haaland could outlive Pep Guardiola at Man City.
Pep Guardiola has refused to criticise Erling Haaland despite the Manchester City striker’s alarming dip in front of goal (Credit: Imago)
“Nobody is like Messi. He’s a different type of player,” Guardiola said before adding, “Leo can play in different positions and create opportunities for his teammates. Erling is different, but in terms of numbers, scoring goals, they are similar.”
Guardiola also mentioned that Cristiano Ronaldo’s consistent goalscoring over 15 years puts him in the same conversation as Messi, adding that Haaland’s current trajectory could see him achieve similar greatness
Haaland commits long-term future to Manchester City
Just as Guardiola said, Haaland’s new contract shows his dedication to Manchester City and his ambition to become one of football’s all-time greats under Pep.
Norway’s record goalscorer Erling Haaland | Imago
The Manchester City boss acknowledged the unprecedented nature of the deal, describing it as a “proof of confidence and trust in the club.”
Guardiola also noted that Haaland’s competitive nature and work ethic are key to his continued success, saying, “He loves to play and he’s a huge competitor. His mindset is really good, always thinking about the next challenge.”
Erling Haaland is at Man City to stay. || Imago
With this contract, Haaland has the opportunity to cement his place among legends like Messi and Ronaldo.
His prolific start at City suggests he could challenge records held by Sergio Agüero, Wayne Rooney, and Alan Shearer, which would see him become one of the greatest players in Premier League history.
Haaland is nothing compared to Ronaldo and Messi these two are greater players than he is
I believe messi is better than Haaland