Pep Guardiola – Foto: X.com/ Manchester City
Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, addressed rumors of Barcelona’s interest in Erling Haaland during the post-match press conference following the 1-0 victory over Brentford on Sunday (5) in the Premier League. The Norwegian striker scored the game’s only goal, solidifying his impressive form this season. Guardiola took a balanced tone, acknowledging the attacker’s appeal while emphasizing the player’s commitment to the English club.
The Catalan highlighted that Haaland signed a contract until 2034, a clear sign of long-term intent. He questioned the credibility of the gossip, stating that the Norwegian would not make hasty decisions. The statement reflects the City’s confidence in retaining its top scorer.
🚨🗣️ Pep Guardiola: “Barça want Haaland? I understand that Barcelona dream of Erling, and so do all the teams in the world.”
“If he was not with us, it would be City’s dream to have a player like him.” pic.twitter.com/V1Z9pc45xy
— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) October 5, 2025
Haaland’s performance in the current season
Erling Haaland is having a blistering start with the Manchester team, posting numbers that impress. In nine official matches, the striker has netted 12 goals, including contributions for the Norwegian national team. His efficiency in finishing has been crucial to the team’s positive results.
The Norwegian has already recorded nine goals in the Premier League alone, across seven rounds played. This tally positions him as one of the competition’s top highlights. Additionally, Haaland provides assists, broadening his offensive impact.
The player’s consistency shows in streaks of consecutive goals. He has scored in all of the City’s last seven games. This pace supports the team’s leadership in the standings.
Contract and uncertain future in football
Haaland’s deal with Manchester City runs until June 2034, signed in August 2022. This extension demonstrates the club’s strategy to retain elite talents for long periods. Guardiola reinforced that the striker shows daily dedication in training.
Factors like injuries or tactical changes can influence careers in the sport. However, the Norwegian has expressed satisfaction with the environment in Manchester. The manager avoided speculation, focusing on the present.
Transfer rumors frequently arise in European leagues. For Haaland, the focus remains on the City’s collective goals. The Catalan press mentioned the interest, but without concrete bids.
Guardiola’s view on the Catalan interest
Guardiola began his response with a general observation about the market. “Every club would dream of having Haaland,” he said, including Barcelona and City itself. This perspective normalizes the rumors without alarmism.
The coach praised the player’s maturity. “He’s not stupid enough to sign something he doesn’t intend to honor,” he stated. This remark underscores the mutual trust between the coaching staff and the squad.
Manchester City’s packed schedule
The team faces an intense sequence of matches in the coming weeks. Commitments include clashes in the Premier League and the Champions League. Haaland is expected to be a key piece in these fixtures.
- Everton, in the Carabao Cup, on October 18 at 11 a.m. (Brasília time).
- Villarreal, in the Champions League, on October 21 at 4 p.m. (Brasília time).
- Aston Villa, in the Premier League, on October 26 at 11 a.m. (Brasília time).
These games will test the squad’s depth under Guardiola. Rotation will be essential to sustain the pace. Haaland, recovered from a prior ankle injury, is training at full steam.
Haaland’s history with City since arrival
Erling Haaland joined Manchester City in July 2022 from Borussia Dortmund for around 60 million euros. Since then, the Norwegian has transformed the team’s attack, aiding in titles like the Premier League and Champions League. His quick adaptation to Guardiola’s style impressed analysts, with goal averages exceeding one per game in domestic competitions. The striker also integrated well into the dressing room, forming partnerships with players like Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden, which expand his finishing opportunities.
Despite a forced break due to an ankle injury in September, Haaland returned with full force, scoring in decisive matches and contributing to the City’s early unbeaten run this season. This trajectory explains why rival clubs like Barcelona monitor his performance, though the current focus remains on consolidation in Manchester. The Norwegian has already amassed over 100 goals for the club in under three years, a record placing him among the Premier League’s recent all-time great scorers.
Expectations for upcoming challenges
The City’s agenda demands balance across competitions. The matchup with Everton kicks off a midweek double. Wins in these could widen the gap at the top of the table.
Guardiola plans tactical tweaks for each opponent. Haaland is set to start as a regular. The team aims to preserve its unbeaten streak.
Impact of rumors on the squad
Transfer gossip can affect internal dynamics in elite teams. At City, the group maintains cohesion, per close sources. Haaland stays focused on individual and team targets.
Veteran players like Rodri publicly back the Norwegian. This unity bolsters overall performance. The club keeps an eye on the market but prioritizes stability.
