Nathan Ake believes the mentality Erling Haaland possesses “sets him apart” from others.
Interestingly, Pep Guardiola also revealed that the Norwegian hitman has a “special mentality” as he is driven to add to his goal tally at all times.
Dean Ashton also admitted that he was “impressed” with Erling Haaland’s mindset due to how well he redeemed himself from his missed chance against Brentford to score two brilliant goals against Everton.
Nathan Ake says Erling Haaland has a rare mentality that “sets him apart”
As Manchester City prepare to face Copenhagen in the Champions League last 16 on Tuesday, Nathan Ake has lauded Erling Haaland due to the rare mentality that he possesses.
“He doesn’t let anything affect the way he is. I think sometimes when he misses chances or things like that, it doesn’t affect him. Next one, he goes again with the same confidence. I think that sets him apart”, Ake said (via BeanymanSports).
“Sometimes, you have moments where maybe, you’re playing a little bit less and it can affect you and him, it doesn’t. He’s mentally very strong. He’s shown that over the last few seasons now and yeah, hopefully, he can continue to do that.”
Recently, Shaun Wright-Phillips also claimed that the 23-year-old’s unfazed nature allows him to back himself at all times, even after he fluffs his lines in front of goal.
Erling Haaland simply has an elite striker’s mentality
Nathan Ake raises a fair point about Erling Haaland, who perhaps has gone on to become a star striker due to how he thinks.
At the end of the day, as much as a number nine contributes to a game, his game is primarily judged on how many goals he scores.
For instance, Arsenal’s Gabriel Jesus and Liverpool’s Darwin Nunez often stir conversations around them due to their inability to become consistent goalscorers for their teams.
As excellent a finisher as Haaland is, he, much like any striker can also miss the odd chance here and there.
However, what separates the good from the great strikers is their ability to quickly move on and look to put the ball in the back of the net.
Erling Haaland, as Nathan Ake revealed seems to have this mentality in abundance.
Mental strength plays a crucial role in football and as a result, even if a striker is blessed with all the technical and physical attributes possible, if their mindset is not as single-minded as Haaland’s is, they will struggle to reach the highest possible level.
