The signing of Erling Haaland in the summer of 2024 was supposed to propel Manchester City to new attacking heights. The Norwegian goal machine hit the ground running, notching an astonishing 13 goals in his first 10 league matches. However, as the season has progressed, Haaland’s output has noticeably dipped, with just 4 goals in his last 13 appearances. This barren run has coincided with a worrying slump in form for Pep Guardiola’s side, who have managed only a single win in their past 8 Premier League outings.
Tactical Mismatch
At the heart of the issue appears to be a tactical mismatch between Haaland’s skill set and City’s possession-heavy playing style. While undoubtedly one of the most lethal finishers in world soccer, the 24-year-old thrives on space in behind and early service into the box – elements that have been largely absent from City’s patient, probing approach play. Too often, Haaland has found himself isolated and starved of quality service, unable to impact the game in the manner we’ve come to expect.
“It’s about us, it’s not just about one player. When Erling was so prolific, it was about us, the team. Erling is so important for us and will be so important for us. We need to use him better.”
– Pep Guardiola
Guardiola’s post-match comments following the disappointing 0-0 draw with Aston Villa hinted at the crux of the problem. The Catalan manager shouldered the blame, acknowledging that the team as a whole must adapt to better accommodate their star striker. This will likely involve a shift towards a more direct style in the final third, with quicker transitions and earlier crosses to maximize Haaland’s unparalleled ability to attack the ball in the box.
Wider Malaise
Of course, Haaland’s struggles are symptomatic of a broader malaise currently afflicting the Etihad Stadium. City’s usually slick passing game has looked labored of late, with a lack of creativity and penetration in the final third. Key players such as Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez have been below their best, while the absence of a recognized left-back has unbalanced the side and limited their attacking options.
- Lack of creativity and penetration in the final third
- Key players like De Bruyne and Mahrez out of form
- Absence of a natural left-back unbalancing the side
These issues have combined to blunt City’s attacking edge, with Haaland often cutting an isolated figure up front. The Norwegian has been forced to feed off scraps, and while his movement remains excellent, the service simply hasn’t been there to take advantage. Guardiola must find a way to reignite his side’s attacking verve if they are to get the best out of their star man and keep pace in the title race.
Solving the Puzzle
The good news for City fans is that Guardiola has a track record of finding solutions to tactical problems. The Spaniard is renowned for his ability to tweak and adjust his system to get the best out of his players, and there is no reason to believe he won’t be able to do the same with Haaland. Whether it’s a change in formation, personnel, or simply a shift in emphasis, expect to see City evolve in the coming weeks as they look to reintegrate their star striker.
One possible solution could be to deploy Haaland in a front two, with a more mobile partner tasked with dropping deep and linking play. This would give the Norwegian more support and create space for him to attack in behind, while also allowing City to maintain their possession-based approach. Alternatively, Guardiola may opt for a more direct style, with quicker transitions and earlier crosses to maximize Haaland’s aerial threat.
Whatever the solution, it’s clear that City must find a way to better utilize their star striker if they are to reignite their stuttering season. Haaland remains one of the most devastating finishers in world soccer, and if Guardiola can solve the tactical puzzle, he could yet fire them to glory on multiple fronts. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining whether City can get back on track and mount a serious challenge for the Premier League title.
