Internal tension at Manchester City: Haaland speaks out, Guardiola points inward

Manchester City continue to reflect on their mid-season drop in performance, with Erling Haaland and Pep Guardiola offering differing but overlapping perspectives on the root of the problem. Questions around squad motivation and mental sharpness have become a growing concern.

Speaking to ESPN, City’s star striker Erling Haaland delivered a candid assessment of the team’s recent form, pointing to a lack of hunger following past successes. “Of course, we could use injuries as an excuse, but ultimately we weren’t good enough,” said the Norwegian forward. “That hunger wasn’t fully there. I didn’t contribute enough myself. As a team, we simply weren’t good enough.”

City endured a 13-match stretch during the middle of the season in which they managed just one victory — a run that significantly diverged from their usual dominance. According to Haaland, the slump wasn’t purely physical but reflected a mental and motivational dip.

Guardiola: “The answer is inside the squad”

Haaland’s comments were put to Pep Guardiola, who didn’t dispute the striker’s claims but instead reinforced the need for players to address these questions internally. “If Erling feels this way, then players should ask themselves and each other why,” Guardiola said. “We’re generally happy with our performances, but this form has lasted only three or four weeks — that’s not enough.” (ESPN)

Guardiola’s message aligns with sentiments he has voiced throughout the season, often stressing that sustained success requires a renewed hunger. He previously stated that “the only way to stay successful is to learn how to get hungry again.”

Haaland set to return: Key boost ahead of final stretch

After being sidelined with injury since March, Haaland is nearing a return for the closing weeks of the season. According to a Reuters report dated 9 May 2025, the striker has resumed full training and declared himself ready. “I feel good, I’m moving well, and I’m ready,” said Haaland — a clear message to the coaching staff ahead of a critical run-in.

2024/25 season: Elite numbers despite the dip

Despite City’s inconsistent form, Haaland remains the club’s top scorer across all competitions, having netted 30 goals in 40 appearances so far this season.

• Premier League: 28 matches – 21 goals, 3 assists

• UEFA Champions League: 9 matches – 8 goals

• FA Cup: 2 matches – 1 goal

Though the raw numbers are impressive, Haaland himself acknowledged that statistics don’t fully capture the team’s current state. The Norwegian made it clear that individual numbers must align with broader team impact.

Current league position: City fighting for Champions League spot

After 35 matches in the Premier League, Manchester City sit third on 64 points, trailing leaders Liverpool (82 points) and Arsenal (67 points). With three matches remaining, City are aiming to consolidate their position and secure Champions League qualification for next season.