Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has spoken about the struggles his team have faced following their 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on Matchday 17 of the Premier League. Haaland acknowledged the difficult time the team is going through and stressed the importance of staying focused and united in difficult times. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to bounce back, highlighting the quality and resilience of the squad.
Haaland also stressed that setbacks are part of football and Manchester City have the experience to handle pressure and turn things around. Reflecting on Pep Guardiola's leadership, Haaland noted that the manager has always found solutions to difficult situations in the past, which gives the team the belief that they will overcome this period as well.
Erling Haaland has spoken about the mood within the Manchester City squad following recent setbacks, including the 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa in the Premier League round of 17. The Norwegian forward acknowledged the drop in confidence affecting the team, stressing how belief is crucial to maintaining high levels of performance. “Of course we are disappointed. Our confidence is not very good at the moment, and you can see that affects everyone. But we have to keep going and stay positive, even when it is difficult,” Haaland admitted. His comments reflect the awareness within the team that their current form is not living up to the high standards they have set for themselves in recent seasons.
Despite the difficult period, Haaland was quick to highlight Pep Guardiola's incredible track record and the trust the players have in their manager. "Pep has won the Premier League six times in seven years, we won't forget that. He always finds a way. He does it every year. We believe in him, and now it's up to us to work harder than ever," he continued.
Haaland's comments underline the unity within the team, even during difficult times. The forward stressed that football is full of ups and downs, and moments like these are inevitable for any big club. What matters most, he said, is how the team responds. "It's part of the game. You're going to have difficult times, but that's when we have to come together and push even harder. This club is full of winners, and we know what it takes to get back on track." Reflecting on Guardiola's leadership, Haaland expressed confidence that the Manchester City manager would get them back to their best. "Pep has been there before. He's seen it all. We trust him because we know he'll find the right solutions. He's proven it time and time again, and as players, we believe in his methods," Haaland added.
The forward also spoke of the need for the team to improve individually and collectively. “It’s not just about Pep. It’s about us as players. We need to show more intensity, more focus and more desire. That’s how we’ll turn this around,” he said. Haaland’s outlook highlights the mentality that has made Manchester City one of the dominant forces in world football under Guardiola. The team understands the importance of staying on track, trusting the process and working tirelessly to get back to winning form.