Pep Guardiola: Erling Haaland is ‘the top forward globally’ despite lackluster performance

Pep Guardiola has referred to Erling Haaland as “the best striker in the world” prior to Manchester City’s match against Liverpool, despite the player’s recent decline in performance in 2026.

The Norwegian has not found the net from open play in the Premier League this year, with his last two goals coming during a 3-0 victory over West Ham on December 20.

Speculation has arisen that Guardiola might opt to bench Haaland at Anfield on Sunday in favor of Omar Marmoush, who netted twice against Newcastle on Wednesday.

However, the City manager has backed Haaland, asserting that the 25-year-old continues to be the top goalscorer globally.

“Erling is the best striker in the world,” Guardiola stated.

When asked if Haaland would certainly start against Liverpool, Guardiola replied: “I don’t know, but I always say Erling is the best.”

City must secure a victory over Liverpool to maintain their pursuit of Arsenal at the summit of the table.

This presents a challenging endeavor for Guardiola, who has achieved only one Premier League win at Anfield since his arrival at City in 2016.

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“It is always the toughest opponent and a challenging venue with the caliber of the players and the managers,” he remarked.

“They continue to be an outstanding team with a top-class manager.

“The moments are the moments, the seasons are the seasons. They have rebuilt the squad not just for one season but for many seasons.”