'Ballon d'Or is not Erling Haaland's target' - Pep Guardiola hits back at Jamie Carragher over criticism of Man City star and explains why he has nothing to prove

The Manchester City striker reached incredible goalscoring levels in the Premier League last season but has failed to hit the same feats this term. The dip in his performances has resulted in a lot of criticism regarding his involvement in play outside of just putting the ball in the back of the net. One such criticism came from Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, who questioned Haaland's aims of winning titles with the team over his desire to win individual accolades.

Guardiola defended Haaland against Carragher's criticism, saying: "The target is not to win the Ballon d’Or. The target is to win the Premier Leagues, Champions Leagues, FA Cups and Carabao Cups. And he did it. Without him, it would not be possible. What we won in 2023 five titles without him it’s impossible. No chance. He’s a key player for us. He will improve because of his desire, his age, more games, more experience, arrive in the latter stages of the competition, it’s never happened in his career. This will be his future."

Despite all the criticism surrounding Haaland, the 23-year-old has racked up 30 goals and provided six assists in 37 games in all competitions in 2023-24, a drop-off from last season's statistics but world-class output nonetheless.

While the Norwegian was unable to impress in the 3-3 draw against Real Madrid in the first leg of their quarter-final clash, it is possible that he could be rested on the weekend against Luton Town as City prepare for the second leg on April 17.