Pep Guardiola makes feelings clear after Erling Haaland blames himself for Man City woe
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Pep Guardiola has refused to blame Erling Haaland amid both his and Manchester City's wretched form. Saturday's defeat to Aston Villa means the reigning champions have won just one of their last 12 games in all competitions. That has seen them plummet to seventh in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool who also hold a game in hand over City.
One of their biggest problems has been the dreadful form of Haaland in front of goal. Having started the campaign with 10 goals in five games, the striker has now scored just three times in his last 12 league outings. Haaland took responsibility for his struggles to score following the defeat at Villa Park. But ahead of the Boxing Day visit of Everton, Guardiola has insisted it is up to the whole team to help the Norwegian.
“It is about us, not just one player,” Guardiola said when asked about Haaland. "In the past when we scored goals and Erling was so prolific and helping us it was because of the team. But when you have problems at the back and middle, it is all about the team.
"Not just one player. If it’s just one player it would be easy to see the reason why. It’s not about that. Erling is so important for us, will be important for us and we need to use him better. “This situation is new for all of us. It’s about us, everyone. The guys are running and making an effort more than ever. People say we are not running, fighting, it’s this player, this manager - it is not about that.
