Stuart Pearce Predicts Goal Decline for Erling Haaland in 2025/26 Season

Former Manchester City manager Stuart Pearce has predicted that striker Erling Haaland will not reach the 30-goal mark in the upcoming 2025/26 season, citing increased defensive attention and tactical adjustments across the Premier League.

Despite Haaland finishing as Manchester City’s top scorer last season and maintaining an outstanding scoring record since joining in 2022, Pearce believes the Norwegian may now face new challenges in maintaining those elite numbers.

“I think he’ll be in the 20s next year,” Pearce told CLUB. “Teams have worked him out. They deny him space, they close him down better. And now it’s up to the team behind him to create opportunities.”

Haaland has consistently scored over 30 goals in all competitions in each of his City seasons to date. However, changes within the squad – including potential departures and new midfield combinations – could alter the dynamics of creativity this season.

FAQ

• How many goals has Haaland scored in past City seasons? Over 30 in every campaign since his arrival in 2022.
• Why does Pearce expect a decline? He says Premier League defenders and coaches have adapted to Haaland’s style.
• Is Haaland’s role under threat? No. He remains City’s first-choice striker heading into 2025/26.
• Who could share the goalscoring burden? Players like Oscar Bobb, Omar Marmoush, and Rayan Cherki could step up.

Conclusion

While Stuart Pearce’s comments raise valid tactical considerations, Manchester City will continue to rely on Erling Haaland’s elite-level finishing as they look to reclaim their Premier League crown. His response to growing challenges will be a key storyline throughout the new season.