Pep Guardiola makes Erling Haaland claim amid Real Madrid rumours

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 05: Erling Haaland of Manchester City celebrates with Josep 'Pep' Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, after the Premier League match between Manchester City and Fulham FC at Etihad Stadium on November 05, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 05: Erling Haaland of Manchester City celebrates with Josep 'Pep' Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, after the Premier League match between Manchester City and Fulham FC at Etihad Stadium on November 05, 2022 in Manchester, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)

Real Madrid have been linked with a number of players in recent times. And one of the biggest names amongst them is that of Erling Haaland. The Norwegian might have joined Manchester City just last summer. But his future at the club already looks uncertain. Could a move to Santiago Bernabeu lie in his future?

On one hand, Haaland does not seem like the kind of player who will stay at one club too long. On the other hand, it is believed that a release clause will become active in his contract in the summer of 2024 for clubs outside of the Premier League.

Real Madrid need to sign a long-term replacement for Karim Benzema, who has struggled badly with fitness problems throughout this season. The summer of 2024 might be the perfect time for them to do that. And who better than Haaland?

Guardiola seems to be certain of Haaland’s happiness at Manchester City, despite of the rumours surrounding his future. As reported by MARCA, the manager said:

"“He enjoys it, and the way he celebrates his goals shows how happy he is here, how happy we are with him and the personality he has.”"

Guardiola makes Haaland claim amid Real Madrid rumours

Haaland arrived at Manchester City in the summer from Borussia Dortmund, with a lot of expectations on his shoulders. He has not disappointed. In fact, one could argue that he has overdelivered.

Haaland has already crossed the 30-goal mark this season and if he can finish it strong, there is a possibility that he could score 50 goals in his debut campaign for Manchester City. That is remarkable to say the least, especially for someone who is 22 years of age and theoretically, nowhere near his footballing prime yet.

Thus, it is not hard to understand why Real Madrid might be interested in Haaland. But at the same time, some questions have been raised about the impact that he has had on the Manchester City team as a whole, who are chasing Arsenal in the Premier League title race.