Haaland patience key to goals says boss | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says the opportunities Erling Haaland gets largely depends on how the opposition set up against City.

Haaland scored a welcome brace against Sparta Prague in midweek with two superbly taken goals.

That took his tally to 13 in 12 games this season and ended a run of two goals in his six previous games for the Blues - many against sides with the oft-cited 'low block'.

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Guardiola says patience and hard work is needed for any striker regularly playing against a packed defence.

“I think it is like that,” said Pep.

“I know Erling's second goal [against Sparta], he scored in transition when the team was high, Matheus and him.

“I said many times that it depends on the opponent to decide what we do.

“Make a spread and structure, of course the space is minimal. Be patient - we have to be like that, it's normal. Sooner or later, you will score.”

Asked at his Friday press conference how the Norwegian manages to remain focused in games where he is allowed few touches, the boss replied: “He has to read what happens, defensively and be involved.

“He’s not just here to score goals. When you do important tasks to help the team, connected football is not offensive defensive.

“I said many times I’m convinced by that. These kinds of things you are there, seconds quicker arrive and take the right decision.

“His average to score goals is impressive, as is the number of goals he has scored. Some games he will be disconnected, but in general he is there.

“I have the feeling that this season he feels better and is recovering better. I had the feeling he feels really good, and it helps.

“He didn’t have the Euros for Norway. I would say one month's rest and make good preparation.

“He has incredible guys to help what he needs and focus more than ever.”

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