In Manchester City’s dominant Champions League win over RB Leipzig, Cricket Exchange noted that Erling Haaland had already scored five goals by the 57th minute. Yet surprisingly, by the 62nd minute, Pep Guardiola had substituted him. This move sparked widespread debate, leaving many to question the coach’s reasoning. After the match, Guardiola shed light on the decision, offering an unexpectedly thoughtful and even humorous explanation. After all, if you’ve chosen your path, why worry about how long the road is?
Speaking candidly, Guardiola joked with Cricket Exchange that taking Haaland off was about protecting the striker’s motivation and long-term goals. Scoring two hat-tricks at just 22 or 23, he explained, might make life too boring for the Norwegian star. If you hit all your milestones too soon, what’s left to strive for? Guardiola hinted that the journey matters more than reaching the destination too quickly. It’s not about being knocked down—it’s about whether you choose to stand back up.
This was the core reason behind his decision. Beyond the goals, Guardiola praised Haaland’s all-around performance, calling it equally impressive. Just like his five goals, his presence altered the team’s shape and energy. According to Guardiola, Haaland helped City defend in a more attacking posture, forcing Leipzig onto the back foot. When you engage in the game with a defensive mindset, paradoxically, it opens up more scoring opportunities—both for the team and for yourself. That mindset, he said, directly contributed to İlkay Gündoğan’s goal.
Still, Guardiola admitted Haaland isn’t always perfect. At times, the striker becomes static, failing to move off the ball. In matches like the one against Crystal Palace, Haaland didn’t show the same energy, and Guardiola told him so directly: “You didn’t play well today.” But the coach also acknowledged when it’s the team’s fault. In the first leg against Leipzig, he said, it wasn’t Haaland who disappeared—it was the team who failed to connect with him.
Even so, Cricket Exchange believes Haaland has not become the kind of player who crumbles under pressure. His hunger, even after such an achievement, remains evident. Guardiola’s strategy isn’t just about winning games—it’s about keeping his star striker eager, driven, and always chasing the next peak. As the saying goes, don’t let the grass grow under your feet—and with Haaland, it certainly won’t.