Pep Guardiola backs Erling Haaland over Alexander Isak in striker debate | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola has declared his faith in Erling Haaland (25), insisting he would not trade the prolific Norwegian for anyone in world football. The Manchester City manager’s comments, reported by BBC Sport, come in the wake of Liverpool boss Arne Slot hailing new £125m signing Alexander Isak (25) as “probably the best striker in the world.” Isak joined Liverpool on deadline day after a controversial showdown with his old side Newcastle United, which eventually led to Isak earning his dream move to last year’s champions.

Slot, who has already begun reshaping Liverpool in his image, spoke glowingly of the Sweden international after his record-breaking transfer from Newcastle United. The Dutchman praised national team coach Jon Dahl Tomasson for carefully managing Isak’s minutes during the recent international break, ensuring his star forward avoided injury ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League clash with Burnley.

However, Guardiola, while acknowledging Isak’s pedigree, drew a clear line in the sand. “Isak is an exceptional player,” he said. “But Erling is a little above. I will not change Erling for anyone, because I know him,” Haaland’s record, 88 goals in 100 Premier League games since joining from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, speaks for itself, and underlines Guardiola’s loyalty to the striker who has helped power City’s dominance at home and in Europe.

Liverpool will face Burnley away from home on Sunday, while City will host Manchester United in the much-anticipated derby.

GFN | Finn Entwistle