Pep is going to make me even better
Haaland’s warning after sealing £51m Man City move on £385k a week...
ERLING HAALAND declared himself a lifelong Manchester City supporter after finally sealing a statement £ 51million switch yesterday.
The striker, the most sought-after youngster in world football, was unveiled almost 22 years to the day since his father, Alfie, signed for City.
Haaland penned a five-year contract worth £385,000 a week and believes Pep Guardiola can take his game to a new level.
‘I’ve been a City fan my whole life and know a lot about the club,’ the 21-year-old said. ‘I feel a bit like it’s home here.
‘I think I can develop a lot under Pep and with this club. I can get better in a lot of things and hopefully I can score a lot of goals.
‘I’ve spoken a little bit with him and we’re looking forward to working with each other. My father knows how it is, what is the best for me. He’s been a good dad in that respect. I went to a lot of City games with my mum, sister and brother watching him.’
Haaland revealed Riyad Mahrez had egged him on to make the move from Borussia Dortmund when the pair met on holiday last summer. The Norway international, who scored 86 goals in 89 games for Dortmund, was also trailed by Real Madrid.
City will turn their attention to central midfield in the transfer market as they look to replace Fernandinho following his release at the end of the season.
Leeds United’s Kalvin Phillips is the preferred target with City keen to wrap up a deal ahead of next month’s short pre- season tour of the United States.
But a frontline striker was the priority ahead of another Premier League title defence, with City looking to win a fifth in six years. The family connection was a key factor in convincing Haaland to choose the Etihad Stadium over the Bernabeu.
‘This is a proud day for me and my family,’ Haaland added. ‘I have always watched City and have loved doing so in recent seasons. You can’t help but admire their style of play, it’s exciting and they create a lot of chances, which is perfect for a player like me.
‘There are so many world-class players in this squad and Pep is one of the greatest managers of all time, so I believe I am in the right place to fulfil my ambitions.
‘ I want to score goals, win trophies and improve as a footballer and I am confident I can do that here.’