Andy Cole expects Manchester City marksman Erling Haaland to have his ‘toughest’ ever season in the following campaign.
The £51 million (Sky Sports) man has made the Premier League his playground in his debut campaign, breaking the Manchester United legend’s goal record of 34 goals.
As Erling Haaland also received a Guard of Honour for his tremendous feat, Andy Cole foresees things not being as seamless for him in the 2023/2024 season, as he claimed on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast.
Andy Cole expects Erling Haaland to undergo ‘toughest’ season till date after dream debut campaign
The 22-year-old has been a man possessed under Pep Guardiola’s guidance, scoring 52 goals in all competitions this season.
While a number of exports struggle in their first seasons in the English top-flight, the Norwegian is cut from a special cloth.
According to Andy Cole, however, Erling Haaland might encounter more struggles than he has this season.
“He was exactly what City needed in terms of that player that can be in and around the box and finish the chances when they come. He does it perfectly. He doesn’t really get involved until the 18-yard box, but when he does start getting involved outside of it, it’s probably game over as he’ll have everything going for him!”
Andy Cole explained why Erling Haaland could find life tougher in the Premier League next season, saying, “Naturally, next season will be the toughest as a player’s second season in the Premier League always is. A lot more teams work you out in the second campaign and while I’m not saying he’s going to struggle to score goals because he’s playing for Manchester City, he might not get as many.”
Erling Haaland is likelier to improve than worsen next season
As was evident in his masterful display in his side’s 4-1 win against Arsenal, Erling Haaland is improving as an overall player and this growth may well disprove Andy Cole.
Sure, perhaps Haaland may not score as many goals, as his numbers are simply staggering.
However, the former Borussia Dortmund striker may dominate defences singlehandedly without even putting the ball into the back of the net, which is a scary sight for opposition defences.
If Pep Guardiola lets the youngster complete more 90s, he could even surpass his current goal tally, in fact.
