'Memory disappears quick' - Pep Guardiola fires back at Roy Keane for 'League Two player' jibe at Erling Haaland as he defends 'exceptional' Manchester City striker

After Manchester City's goalless draw against Arsenal, Keane remarked that while Haaland's finishing prowess is unparalleled, his overall gameplay resembled that of a "League Two player," sparking a debate among football enthusiasts and pundits alike.

Speaking as a pundit on Sky Sports, Manchester United legend Keane said: "The levels of his general play is so poor, and not just today. His general play for such a player is so poor, I think he has to improve that, he's almost like a League Two player."

Guardiola, however, vehemently opposed Keane's assessment and told reporters: "I do not agree with him, absolutely not. It's like [if] I said he's a manager for the second or third league. I don't think so.

"He's the best striker in the world and he helped us to win what we won last season and the reason why we don't create many chances [against Arsenal] is not from Erling. He is exceptional. We need more presence in the final third with more people and we played an exceptional game against Arsenal. I reviewed it."

Guardiola expressed surprise at the criticism directed towards Haaland, particularly coming from a former player like Keane. He believes that ex-players, having experienced the rigours of professional football first-hand, should demonstrate a deeper understanding and empathy towards current players.

“I am surprised when it comes from former players. It’s like referees when they retire, they always criticise the refs," he said.

"That always surprises me. The memory disappears quickly. The problems players have now, they had too. They missed it a thousand, million times and were hurt when they were criticised by former players. I don’t know what’s going to happen in the future but I am not a guy who is going to criticise my colleagues when I retire.”

Haaland's remarkable goal-scoring record further bolstered Guardiola's defence of the player. With 52 goals in 53 games last season and 29 goals in 35 games this term, Haaland's prowess in front of goal is undeniable, cementing his status as one of the most prolific strikers in modern football.

As City continue their pursuit of the Premier League title, Guardiola's spirited defence of Haaland shows his unwavering faith in the striker's abilities.

Nonetheless, the Spaniard admitted that modern superstars should get used to the criticism. “It’s their job, accept it," he said.

“If you can’t accept it as a footballer you have to dedicate to another job, like reading books or . . . .”

Haaland will have an opportunity to silence his critics when he takes to the pitch against Aston Villa on Wednesday evening.