Haaland Remembers Guardiola's Advice Before Challenging Iraq

Norwegian star Erling Haaland is eagerly awaiting his first World Cup appearance, with his national team set to kick off their campaign next Tuesday against Iraq.

In an interview with Daily Mail, he looked back at his exceptional season marked by Pep Guardiola's departure from Manchester City, praising the Spanish coach's remarkable journey.

Haaland stated, 'His palmarès speaks for himself: Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Manchester City... The way his teams play, the records, the titles... But for me, the essential lies in his perseverance at every test, his concern for details, and his ability to make players progress. He elevates everyone, and that's the most important thing.'

The 25-year-old attacker also shared his thoughts before this historic participation of Norway, absent from the World Cup for several decades: 'It's an incredible feeling, something I've thought about for a long time. I grew up just like any other fan: at home, with friends, and family, watching TV. Now, it's different, as I'm here and I'll be part of it all. It's a dream for every player.'

Confident in his team's abilities, he highlights the group's cohesion: 'We form a solid team, made up of players who have been playing together for a long time. We know each other perfectly and enjoy playing on the field. Norway hasn't participated in the World Cup for a long time.'

The Citizens' striker concludes: 'That's why wearing the colors of his country in this competition holds particular importance. The public expects a lot from us, and me in particular, that's normal. I focus on my work and give my best effort.'

On next Tuesday, Norway will begin their World Cup journey against Iraq, with the public hoping that the Manchester City star will propel his team to a first positive result.