Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has admitted that his team will have to deal with one of the best strikers in world football when they come up against Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland in the Champions League quarter-finals.
When asked about what he makes of the Norwegian international’s performances this season, Guardiola said that, although he hasn’t watched much of the forward, his statistics are very impressive:
“The numbers speak for themselves, of course, he is one of the best strikers in the world right now at his age. I saw a few games, honestly, I didn’t have much time. But I saw the highlights and the numbers in the Champions League and the league are impressive. I know the quality of these players and I think everyone knows. But in two weeks I could answer better because I didn’t see much.”
Guardiola was then asked to directly address whether City will be looking to sign Haaland in the summer, but the Spaniard refused to be drawn into saying anything on the matter:
“He’s a player from Borussia Dortmund. I don’t like it when people talk about our players. He’s a player for Borussia Dortmund. You understand I cannot answer this question.”
City, along with Chelsea and United are all thought to be interested in the 20-year-old, but the forward will cost a sizeable sum, with reports claiming that Dortmund will hold out for at least €150m (£129m).
After scoring 31 goals in 30 appearances so far this campaign, it seems like a reasonable price, considering his age and huge potential.
