Man City Star Erling Haaland hits back at increased scrutiny over low touch-count in games
Erling Haaland asserted that even if he scored nine goals in a game, he would still shoot for ten goals because no one ever talks about how many touches he has made when he scores.
Haaland has drawn criticism for his low touch count during games, despite setting a record with 52 goals the previous season and topping the Premier League table with 25 this one.
Haaland stated, “There has always been this question about how many times I should touch the ball,” in an interview with the Men in Blazers podcast. People start bringing up my touches when I don’t score, but nobody speaks about it when I do. I have no control over what others say about me; it’s just a part of my existence.
“I simply need to concentrate on what I need to do on the field. My role is to be in the box and finish assaults; it’s not to be like Rodri and dominate the game. That’s my main concern, and I don’t give a damn what people think.
“It’s all about making the team win. Even though some people find it funny, you can play football without ever touching the ball. You can use your motions, your mind, and your awareness to do it. It plays a major role in the game. Touching the ball is not the only thing to do. You must touch the ball, of sure, but I understand my position on the squad.
After scoring four goals in last Saturday’s 5-1 victory over Wolves, Haaland seemed upset to be replaced, but he was relieved that his replacement would make sure the goals continued coming. “I was angry over something quite unrelated. I was ecstatic when Julián [Álvarez] entered the game and scored. Though I was happy to be substituted off, I would have like to score more goals,” he remarked. “Consider this: surely, if I win a game with nine points? It’s excellent. However, consider 10. Isn’t that better? Everyone concurs with me.
The 23-year-old thinks he can get better. Of course, I’m still learning. Though I’m still the same player, I’ve improved,” Haaland remarked. Because I’m still young and have Pep [Guardiola] in control of me, I’m in the ideal situation. I’m having fun and doing great. I’m content.
“Joining a Pep Guardiola team exposes you to a lot of tactical aspects.” It’s not simple; you have to adjust and pick up new skills since he always comes up with something new. I’m improving on this side and my physical health is improving.
Haaland said another sportsman he wished he could be. He said, “Michael Jordan [basketball player].” “Being him would be exciting because of his extraordinary mindset.”
In case the ground is dry, like it was for City’s 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest last month, Guardiola trained his players on a dry surface this week to get them ready for Saturday’s trip to Fulham.
