Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola has rejected claims that the team’s poor form is down to Erling Haaland, instead calling for collective improvement.
City, with just one win in their last eight Premier League matches, sit seventh in the table, 12 points adrift of leaders Liverpool.
“It’s about us, not just one player,” Guardiola said ahead of Thursday’s clash with Everton. “Erling is vital for us and always will be, but the team must work better together. It’s never just one person.”
Haaland, after scoring 10 goals in City’s first five matches, has managed only two in their current slump.
Guardiola, however, emphasized that defensive and midfield struggles also contribute to the team’s challenges.
City could face Everton without key players John Stones, Matheus Nunes, and Ederson, as injuries continue to bite. Despite their recent struggles, Guardiola remains optimistic.
“It’s not one reason or one player. It’s many small and big details that have held us back. But we have another opportunity on Boxing Day to reset,” he added.
Guardiola also praised Everton’s defensive solidity under Sean Dyche, noting their five clean sheets in six games, and stressed the importance of focus in overcoming the Toffees’ well-organized approach.
