Haaland Calls for Change Ahead of Manchester Derby

Manchester, England – Erling Haaland expressed frustration with Manchester City’s performance this season, calling it “not good enough.” As the team prepares for Sunday’s Manchester derby, he sees it as a “perfect” opportunity to start improving. City is currently trailing Manchester United by a single point after experiencing two consecutive losses.

“We’ve lost two games in a row, it’s way too bad,” Haaland told Viaplay. “We need to figure it out and get back to winning ways. We can’t afford to lose games as there are many strong teams.” He emphasized the importance of getting back on track against United and urged his teammates to be at their best.

“Losing’s not cool,” he said. “It’s annoying, but we need to use it as motivation to do better in the next game. I expect us to channel our frustrations into a strong performance.”

Coach Pep Guardiola has acknowledged City’s rocky start and highlighted the need for improvement. He stated that his future at the club, which runs until June 2027, hinges on the team’s performance. “I’m not here to live on past glories,” Guardiola said. “I want to make my players better and take responsibility.”

Guardiola also commented on the recent signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain, who is likely to start in goal on Sunday, replacing James Trafford. “Gigi brings a different style compared to Ederson,” Guardiola noted, “and we didn’t bring him in to replicate what Ederson has done.”

Injuries will hinder City this weekend, notably Omar Marmoush, who is sidelined with a knee injury incurred while playing for Egypt. Guardiola remarked, “We have to conduct further tests, but it looks like a few weeks out for him.”

John Stones also remains a doubt due to a muscular issue. However, Guardiola confirmed that Rico Lewis has signed a new contract with the club, extending until 2030.

As they face Manchester United, City is hoping to turn their season around and seize the opportunity that the derby presents.