Pep Guardiola has described Lionel Messi as the most complete center-forward in football history, dismissing concerns about Erling Haaland.
Guardiola told a beIN Sports reporter that Messi remains unequaled despite Haaland’s amazing form.
“The most complete centre-forward ever seen is Lionel Messi,” Guardiola said when asked if Haaland was the best center-forward ever to play the game.
The comments followed Haaland’s remarkable hat-trick in City’s 4-1 comeback victory over Premier League newcomers Ipswich Town.
Ipswich shocked the champions with an early goal from Sammie Szmodics, but Haaland quickly equalized with a penalty five minutes later.
He added another goal, followed by a strike from Kevin De Bruyne to make it 3-1 before halftime.
Haaland sealed the win late in the game, completing his first hat-trick, keeping City’s position at the top of the table.
Despite this, Guardiola was quick to temper the excitement around Haaland, stating that while the Norwegian can be compared to greats like Cristiano Ronaldo and Messi, Messi stands alone as the best ever to play the game.
City’s win over Ipswich keeps them on track in their title defense, maintaining a perfect start to the season.
