Erling Braut Haaland received Keane criticism – Pep Guardiola hits back

– I do not agree, absolutely not. It’s as if I should say that he is a manager at league two levelKeane has been manager of Sunderland and Ipswich Town respectively, both in the Championship, the second tier of English football.. Erling is the world’s best striker, and helped us win what we won last year, says Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola when asked by VG.

It was in the Sky Sport studio after the 0-0 match between Manchester City and Arsenal that Roy Keane discussed Haaland’s performance.

– His level in the court game is so bad. It’s not just today. In front of goal he is the best in the world, but in the game on the pitch it is so bad. He’s almost like one League 2 playerLeague 2 is the fourth level in English top football.was among what Keane said in the channel’s studio.

Criticism was also found in English newspapers:

The statements have become a big talking point here in England. Partly because Keane has a history with Alfie Haaland after badly injuring Erling’s father during a match between Manchester City and Manchester United.

– The reason why we didn’t create chances against Arsenal is not because of Erling, but because we needed more people in the box. We played an incredible game, but we missed several last thirdIn football terms, this means the top third of the pitch, i.e. where the opponent’s goal is.. But Erling is exceptional, says Guardiola bluntly.

Although he receives criticism: Haaland is the top scorer in the Premier League with 18 goals. This despite the fact that he lost a month and a half of games due to an injury.

Guardiola jokes that he could become a TV pundit if the offer was lucrative enough, before criticizing their practice:

– I understand when it comes from journalists, since they have not played at this level. But when it comes from old players, it surprises me. Their memory disappears so quickly, says Guardiola about the experts’ statements.

Guardiola also showed his sarcastic side at Tuesday’s press conference:

The press conference was largely about Haaland. How does he handle receiving such harsh criticism from such a high-profile expert? Could he have been used differently in the big game? Why was he so isolated?

The answers were largely the same: “It’s not just about Erling.”

Haaland’s mental strength in adversity was also a topic. Has Guardiola ever experienced anyone with similar dedication?

– It was really surprising from day one. You don’t know the players until they’re actually here. He lives his life only to be ready for battle. The recovery he has to go through is not easy, compared to other players. But he is aware of it, and so are the people around him and the club, says Guardiola.

Manchester City will be visited by fourth-placed Aston Villa on Wednesday evening at 9.15pm.

Haaland and his company are a bit behind in the battle for the title in the Premier League and can hardly afford to make a mistake for the rest of the season.