Man City boss Guardiola hails Haaland’s defensive display against Newcastle

Pep Guardiola has described Erling Haaland as “generous” and “incredible” after the striker’s defensive contribution helped Manchester City defeat Newcastle United at the Etihad Stadium.

While Nico O’Reilly received the official player of the match award, Guardiola singled out his centre-forward as the true standout performer.

Haaland is usually measured by his extraterrestrial goalscoring exploits, but this performance offered something entirely different.

Despite failing to find the net for the eighth time in 11 games, the Norwegian international has arguably never been more involved in City’s general play.

Record touches and defensive grit

The 24-year-old registered 43 touches, marking the highest tally of his Premier League career to date.

His physical battle with Newcastle defender Dan Burn was a focal point throughout the contest at the Etihad.

Aside from his hold-up play, the striker provided the assist for O’Reilly’s second goal with a precise cross.

However, it was his work inside his own penalty area that drew the most acclaim.

Haaland made three clearances, a figure bettered only by Rodri and Marc Guehi among his team-mates.

It was a display of defensive resilience that prompted Guehi to joke about his colleague’s positional future.

“I think he should stay up front, for sure,” said the January signing. “I don’t want him to take my place.”

‘An incredible, generous player’

Guardiola admitted he usually prefers his top scorer to stay further forward, but acknowledged the necessity of his contribution against the Magpies.

“I’m not a big fan to put Erling to defend,” said the City boss. “But he helped us, and I know after, how the people hug him and celebrate him and say they’re grateful for helping us.”

“He’s an incredible, generous player, so today is a performance and I’ll never forget what Erling has done for us.”

This shift in approach comes during a relatively quiet spell in front of goal for the Premier League’s Golden Boot holder.

Yet the former Borussia Dortmund man has stepped up significantly as part of the club’s leadership group.

Having recently committed to a nine-and-a-half year contract, Haaland appears to be evolving into a complete team player rather than just a pure finisher.