Guardiola Defends Erling Haaland: Best Striker in the World Despite His Poor Performance

Erling Haaland has not scored a goal in the English League since entering 2026 (Instagram/@mancity).

JAKARTA - Pep Guardiola calls Erling Haaland the best striker in the world even though his performance has declined in 2026.

The Norwegian has not scored from open play in the Premier League this year, with his last two goals coming in a 3-0 win over West Ham on December 20, 2025.

There is speculation that Guardiola may have rested Haaland for Manchester City's trip to Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, February 8, 2026, and replaced him with Omar Marmoush, who scored twice against Newcastle United on Thursday, February 5, 2026, in the Carabao Cup semi-final.

However, the Manchester City manager defended Haaland and insisted that the 25-year-old remains the best goalscorer on the planet.

"Erling is the best striker in the world. "I don't know (whether he will be a starter against Liverpool), but I always say Erling is the best," Guardiola said as reported by ESPN.

Manchester City need to beat Liverpool to stay in contention with Arsenal at the top of the table. This will be a tough task for Guardiola, who has only recorded one win in the English League at Anfield since joining the Citizens in 2016.

"Anfield is always a tough opponent and a difficult place and stadium given the quality of the players and the manager."

"They are still an incredible team with a top-class manager. Moments, seasons, they rebuild the squad not for one season, but for many seasons," said the Spanish coach.

Currently, Manchester City is six points behind Arsenal who lead the standings from 24 matches in the English League.