“The best coach in the world”

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has praised coach Pep Guardiola, calling him the best in the world. The Spaniard led Citizens to a historic European treble, becoming only the second English club after Manchester United to achieve this feat.

Haaland was outstanding for City in his first season, scoring 52 goals across competitions. He also finished as the Premier League’s top scorer this season, with 36 goals.

Haaland spoke to the media after City’s Champions League final victory over Inter, about working with Guardiola and his relationship with tactics.

“It’s a big game, the pressure is unbelievable, you all know that,” Haaland said (via The National News).

“Working with Pep is really special. We have a good relationship and he has helped me a lot. I’m looking forward to developing more. I’m still young, I have a lot of years. To train with him every day, the best coach in the world, it’s a good place.”

Haaland was unable to score in the final, but midfielder Rodri’s goal in the second half was enough to put City through against Inter.

Erling Haaland leads Manchester City to win the Champions League for the first time in the first season

Haaland joined Manchester City for €60m in the 2022 summer transfer window from Borussia Dortmund and was crucial to achieving the treble.

After Inter’s victory, he also spoke of the feeling of leading City to their first Champions League title.

“Unbelievable. In my wildest dreams, I wouldn’t consider this as a 22-year-old to be honest. But it does show that it’s possible for someone from a small town in Norway.

“It gives, I think, motivation to other young people in the same situation as me playing indoor football in my hometown,” Haaland added.

City eventually comfortably won the Premier League before defeating Manchester United in the FA Cup Final. UCL’s victory completed their historic triple-double.