Erling Haaland has paid a heartfelt tribute to outgoing Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola, saying it was the “honour of a lifetime” to work with him
Erling Haaland has shared a tribute to departing Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola and suggested he “made greatness feel normal”.
The Norwegian has spent the past four years under the guidance of the Catalan tactician, who has recently announced the end of his decade-long tenure at the Etihad. This makes Guardiola the manager Haaland has worked with for the longest period during his career – and the one who delivered him the greatest success.
Haaland arrived at City in 2022 following several prolific campaigns with Borussia Dortmund and joined a side who had secured silverware without deploying a traditional No.9 – prompting a subtle adjustment in their approach.
The forward netted twice on his debut and concluded his time under Guardiola with 162 goals. He contributed to City’s treble triumph in his maiden year, shattering the Premier League record for goals in a single season and has praised the impact the former Barcelona manager had on his career and the club.
He said on social media: “A coach who never stopped teaching. It sounds crazy to say this, but you made greatness feel normal.
“Even after hat-tricks, wins and trophies, there was always another lesson, another challenge and another level to reach. That mentality changed this club forever and changed me too. The honour of a lifetime to work with the best. Thank you for everything, boss.”
During a minor dip in form earlier this season, Guardiola declared: “Erling is the best striker in the world.” Throughout his managerial career, he has previously worked with the likes of David Villa, Samuel Eto’o, Robert Lewandowski and Sergio Aguero.
Haaland’s time under Guardiola concluded with the pair claiming the domestic cup double. The Norwegian has lifted the Premier League title twice and this season claimed his third Golden Boot in just four years.
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A number of City’s squad have spoken warmly of Guardiola as he readies himself to leave English football behind. He has broken countless records and bid an emotional farewell to the club’s supporters on the final day of the campaign.
Bernardo Silva, who departs Manchester after nine years, said: “He’s my father of football. I am really grateful for everything he did for me, the way he trusted me, the way he supported me during the bad moments, the way he helped me see football in a different way and then obviously winning helps.”
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