by India Today Sports DeskManchester City boss Pep Guardiola has backed Erling Haaland to fire in the upcoming second leg of the Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid.
With nothing to separate the two sides at the Santiago Bernabeu during mid-week the tie is evenly drawn with the score at 1-1. One of the interesting aspects of the match was the fight between Antonio Rudiger and Haaland.
In the first leg of the semi-final, the German defenders were able to keep the Norwegian striker under control, much to the dismay of the city fans. However, Guardiola has backed his striker in the upcoming match at the Etihad Stadium.
Speaking to reporters, as quoted by Reuters, the City boss congratulated Rudiger but pointed out that Haaland was playing in a UCL semi-final for the first time and said it would be a little easier for him next time.
Guardiola said if City can get a little better in certain departments, things will be easier for Haaland.
Guardiola told reporters, “Congratulations to Rüdiger. But Erling, we cannot forget, he is 22 years old and he played in the semi-finals of the Champions League for the first time.” He was speaking ahead of Sunday’s Premier League match against Everton.
“The first time to go to the Bernabeu, one of the biggest stages, against a top-class club with good defenders, midfielders and strikers, next time it will be a little easier.
The way we are thinking for Wednesday, if the team can play a little better in some departments then maybe it will be easier for them.
City travel to Everton in a crucial game on Sunday as they look to retain their crown. Guardiola said that even though the UCL is special, the Premier League title is very important because it is a battle of several months.
Guardiola said, “The Premier League title is so important, although I know the Champions League is very special. It’s many, many months and many hard games, incredible effort. That’s the most important thing.”
“Finally, come on. What a privilege. The club totally looks after us. We have to be ready to do it.”