Erling Haaland is one of the most exciting and prolific strikers in the world today. He is already competing with the likes of Lionel Messi and Kevin de Bruyne for the Ballon d’Or award. However, Haaland’s journey to the top has not been without its challenges. In an interview, coach Pep Guardiola unveiled the tale of Haaland’s initial struggles in England and the pivotal turning point that propelled him towards a record-breaking season.

Although the Norwegian striker has been unstoppable since the start of his second season with Man City, Guardiola focused on one particular moment where he struggled in front of his opponents.

Erling Haaland and his transformation from a ‘ghost’ to galactic talent

Erling Haaland arrived at City with a lot of expectations on his shoulders. He had scored over 100 goals in the Bundesliga for Borussia Dortmund and was widely seen as the missing piece in Guardiola’s title-winning puzzle. However, in an interview with TV 2, Pep Guardiola has opened up about what he believes was a turning point for Haaland at City.

Back in February, Haaland was going through a challenging phase with just one goal in four Premier League games. The pressure was mounting as City hosted RB Leipzig in the last 16 of the Champions League. During the match, the Norwegian made his frustration clear. He finished the game with just 20 touches and one shot on target. This led Pep Guardiola to find a solution for his woes and engage his players in an impactful lesson after the full-time whistle.

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Guardiola said, “We have to adjust some things. Many times we can play the ball to Erling, but you don’t even try! He was a ghost. It seemed that we played without knowing that he was there.”

The coach’s critique was clear, as he pointed out that the talismanic striker was seemingly invisible to his teammates. Guardiola implored by adding, “Boys, we have to look for him straight away.” This intervention led to an immediate response from City players, as Haaland started firing goals in the back of the net for Man City and got involved more in further games.

Locking Horns With Lionel Messi for Ballon d’Or, Erling Haaland Makes 13-Year Tainted Record

After firing Manchester City to a treble last season with a record 52 goals for the team in his first season, Erling Haaland is in contention for the Ballon d’Or this season. But, it doesn’t seem too easy for the Man City striker, as his competition lies against seven-time winner, Lionel Messi.

Haaland’s comparison to Messi ahead of the Ballon d’Or

Haaland is one of the favorites to win the Ballon d’Or this year. The goalscoring exploits demonstrated by the striker helped Man City clinch the Premier League title alongside UEFA Champions League last season. Although, he faces stiff competition from none other than the World Cup winner, Lionel Messi.

In a statement that carries weight coming from a coach who has managed some of the greatest soccer stars, Guardiola emphasized, “Erling has incredible qualities, as does Lionel Messi, but they’re good because they’re at a completely different level up here.”

As the Ballon d’Or race heats up, Erling Haaland’s transformation from being a ‘ghost’ on the field to becoming a lethal force is a testament to his talent. Whether he clinches the coveted award or not, one thing is certain: Erling Haaland is set to become one of the top soccer players in the coming years.

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Manchester City will return to action once again when they host Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, September 23rd.