Erling Haaland vs Isak: Guardiola backs his man

Erling Haaland vs Isak debate heats up as Pep Guardiola says Man City striker is “a little bit above” Liverpool’s new £125m signing

Erling Haaland vs Isak has become an early flashpoint of Premier League rivalry after Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola responded to Liverpool boss Arne Slot’s claim that new signing Alexander Isak might be “the best striker in the world”.

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Slot’s remarks came after Liverpool secured Isak from Newcastle for a British record £125 million on transfer deadline day.

The Swedish striker could make his debut against Burnley on Sunday.

While praising Isak’s quality, Guardiola was quick to defend his own star man, Erling Haaland, who has scored a staggering 88 goals in 100 Premier League games since arriving in 2022.

“A little bit above,” Guardiola said when asked to compare the two. “Isak is an exceptional player. But Erling is top. I wouldn’t change him for anyone.”

The Man City boss acknowledged that opinions vary — citing Mbappé, Messi, and Cristiano Ronaldo as other contenders — but remained adamant that Haaland remains in a class of his own.

Isak, meanwhile, comes to Liverpool with an impressive goal tally of 54 goals in 86 league appearances for Newcastle and Real Sociedad.

He helped the Magpies lift their first major trophy in over five decades by winning the League Cup last season.

City will need Haaland’s firepower as they host Manchester United on Sunday, desperate to bounce back from consecutive defeats to Tottenham and Brighton.

Guardiola, who led City to a historic treble just two seasons ago, admitted the team is still settling after significant summer changes.

“When you change 10 players in four or five months, everything needs to be settled, fixed, and consistent,” he said. “Step by step we will do it.”

City also confirmed the arrival of Gianluigi Donnarumma from PSG to replace Ederson, who left for Fenerbahce.

While Ederson was known for his world-class distribution, Guardiola insisted he would not expect the same from Donnarumma.

“I always try to adapt to the quality of the players. Gigi is so tall, so huge. He brings personality and presence. That’s his strength.”

The Spaniard declined to reveal whether Donnarumma or young James Trafford would start in goal for the Manchester derby.

As the Erling Haaland vs Isak debate brews, Guardiola’s vote of confidence in the Norwegian reinforces his status as the Premier League’s most lethal finisher.