Guardiola: Haaland never disappoints us | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola praised his team’s performance against Manchester United and says two-goal Erling Haaland is a ‘special player’.

The Norwegian, who scored his sixth and seventh goals of an unbelievable week for club and country, was the star man in our 3-0 win over Manchester United.

His second-half brace ensured the 197th Manchester derby was effectively ended after 68 minutes.

And his manager was delighted with his all-round performance that also saw him make six important defensive clearances.

“Erling never disappoints us since he arrived,” said Guardiola.

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“Erling has the commitment, that is why he signed a contract for many years. He’s a special player.”

The boss also had praise for Abdukodir Khusanov, who gave an assured performance as right-back against the Reds.

On the Uzbeki crowd favourite, Pep added: “We have in the next 11 months to play every three days.

“No human being can do that. I know for his physicality, he’s so fast and closed that side really well.

“[He didn’t] lose too many balls - sometimes his energy makes him make not the right decision.

“Dorgu is so fast and he has incredible speed. Today [Abdukodir] was really good.”

The Catalan boss was also delighted with the effervescent display of Phil Foden, who looked somewhere near the levels of the 2023/24 campaign as he glided around the pitch as well as opening the scoring with a fine header.

“We missed him so much,” said Pep.

“He moved behind the striker. He has the sense of the team and quality to keep the ball.

“Most play the ball and say, ‘look how good the pass was’. He makes the pass and zoom!

“We cannot forget two seasons ago when we won the last game against West Ham. He was the key player to win the Premier League.

“Last season, for injuries and other reasons he could not be with us but hopefully step by step he can get back.

“He is a Manchester City supporter, and he can do what he's able to do. Joy and happiness on his face and we're going to have the best Phil.”