Pep Guardiola has opened up about two key topics surrounding Manchester City the mounting pressure on Erling Haaland to deliver, and the impressive rise of Nico Gonzalez, whom he compared to Rodri while emphasizing his massive potential.
Haaland has once again been City’s primary source of goals this season, scoring 15 times in all competitions. However, Guardiola admitted that his side’s growing dependence on the Norwegian striker has become a real concern.
“We have to share the goals,” Guardiola said ahead of City’s clash with Bournemouth. “When Erling doesn’t play, the others must step up. It’s not sustainable to expect him to do it all alone.”
The Manchester City boss named Phil Foden, Omar Marmoush, and Rayan Cherki as players capable of easing that attacking burden. “They have the ability to score goals. What defines top teams are players who make an impact — with assists, with goals — and that’s what we need to improve,” Guardiola added.
Despite the pressure, Guardiola praised Haaland’s relentless mentality: “He’s not tired of scoring goals. Maybe if he plays too many games, yes — but he’s fresh and ready. When he needs a rest, he’ll tell me.”
The Norwegian striker was rested for City’s Carabao Cup win over Swansea and is expected to lead the line again versus Bournemouth on Sunday.
Nico Gonzalez Compared to Rodri as Real Madrid Monitor Situation
Meanwhile, Guardiola also spoke glowingly about Nico Gonzalez, who has emerged as a crucial part of City’s midfield this season amid Rodri’s ongoing fitness challenges. The 23-year-old Spaniard joined from Porto for £50 million in January and has quickly settled into the holding role at the Etihad.
“He will be better; when you are coachable,” Guardiola said. “He listens — not just to me, but to his teammates, to Rodri, to the staff. When you’re open-minded, you improve. Nico is the perfect example of that.”
Guardiola continued, “We are here to be better tomorrow than we were today. Players who stay open, who want to learn, they succeed. Nico is that kind of player.”
Gonzalez’s maturity and calmness in possession have already drawn comparisons with Rodri, who continues to battle fitness issues. Real Madrid are reportedly monitoring Gonzalez as a potential target for the 2026 summer transfer window.
City’s Midfield Evolution
Following a major dressing-room overhaul in the summer after a challenging 2024–25 campaign, Manchester City’s midfield dynamic has changed significantly. Gonzalez has been instrumental in maintaining control in the center of the park, helping the Blues rebuild their rhythm during a season of transition.
After seeing their two-month unbeaten run snapped by Aston Villa, City bounced back with a 3-1 win over Swansea in the Carabao Cup. Gonzalez, who started on the bench in that match, is expected to return to the starting lineup against Bournemouth on Sunday — where a victory could lift City into second place in the Premier League.
FAQ
Q: What did Pep Guardiola say about Erling Haaland?
A: Guardiola admitted City rely too heavily on Haaland for goals and urged other attackers to step up.
Q: How did Guardiola describe Nico Gonzalez?
A: He praised Gonzalez’s attitude, calling him “coachable” and open-minded — traits that remind him of Rodri.
Q: Is Real Madrid interested in Nico Gonzalez?
A: Reports suggest Real Madrid are plotting a move for the midfielder in 2026.
Conclusion
Pep Guardiola’s reflections highlight two sides of Manchester City’s evolution the dependence on Erling Haaland’s extraordinary scoring power and the rise of Nico Gonzalez as the club’s next midfield anchor. As Guardiola balances experience and youth, City’s success this season may hinge on both Haaland’s goals and Gonzalez’s growing influence.
