The Norwegian forward made a record-breaking debut season at the Etihad Stadium after joining Manchester City a year ago. In order to assist City win their first-ever treble, Haaland broke the records for the most Premier League goals scored in a single season and the most goals scored by an English club player in a UEFA Champions League season.
After scoring twice off the bench in City’s opening preseason game, a 5-3 victory against Yokohama F. Marinos, Guardiola told the press that he thought his star striker was in excellent shape. Haaland has sustained similar form throughout the preseason this July as well.
“He is fitter now than he was throughout that time last season. The City manager stated, “I know we would want this to be like last season.
“He looks decent, but like everyone else, he’s not in the ideal shape. Understanding the rhythm and the fundamentals is crucial. We are in better condition than we are right now, and we know exactly what he needs to do.
Due to a hamstring injury sustained several months ago, Kevin De Bruyne, another of Guardiola’s key players, was unable to participate in the friendly.
He feels a lot, a lot better. Since he must train [before the games], I am unaware of the events. But he’s so near. He will return shortly, according to Guardiola.
On July 26 in Tokyo, Manchester City will play Bayern Munich in a rematch of the 2022–23 UEFA Champions League quarterfinals.