Pep Guardiola called Erling Haaland “the best striker in the world” ahead of Manchester City’s trip to Liverpool this weekend.
The Norwegian was rested in the Carabao Cup semi-final victory over Newcastle United in midweek, with City running out 3-1 victors in the second leg.
Haaland stepped off the bench at the Etihad Stadium in the second half, but the damage had already been done by his deputy Omar Marmoush, who struck twice, and Tijjani Reijnders, before Anthony Elanga notched a consolation for the visitors.
Marmoush’s performance prompted Guardiola to be asked whether he would consider dropping Haaland once again for the visit to Anfield on Sunday, but the Catalan replied curtly: “Erling is the best striker in the world.”
He refused to clarify whether that meant that the 25-year-old would feature from the off against Liverpool, but emphasised that the striker was “the best”.
Haaland has scored 20 goals in 24 Premier League matches this term, as well as seven from eight in the Champions League.
He is, however, without a goal in his last three outings, not finding the net against Manchester United, Wolves or Tottenham.
Guardiola was also tight-lipped on his own future at the club, with rumours ramping up that this could be his final season at the helm.
The former Barcelona boss will see his contract at the Etihad Stadium expire in 2027, but reports earlier this month suggested that he could depart at the end of the current campaign.
"I have one more year [on my] contract," Guardiola responded.
