'We need to use him better' - Pep Guardiola takes blame for Erling Haaland's miserable run of form amid Man City's nightmare season

Haaland made a flying start in the 2024-25 campaign as he scored 10 goals in his first five Premier League outings, which included two hat-tricks. However, his form has taken a hit since the end of September and has scored only three goals in his last 12 league appearances.

The Norwegian goal machine's sudden dip in form has coincided with City's downfall, as they have won just one game in their 12 matches across all competitions and dropped to seventh place in the league table, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool. Despite the star forward's poor showings, manager Guardiola came to his defence as labelled the situation as a collective failure of the team.

Speaking to reporters, Guardiola said: "It's about us, it's not just about one playing. When Erling was so prolific, it was about us, the team. Erling is so important for us and will be so important for us. We need to use him better.

"The reason why is this one and this one and this one. It is about us, about everyone. The guys are running more than ever. Many little details and big details make us not as good as we were."

The defending champions will be back in action in the Premier League on Boxing Day as they take on Everton at the Etihad Stadium.