What Erling Haaland told Rodri about his early Man City doubts after signing

Erling Haaland was anxious about Manchester City's style of play when he joined the club in 2022, aware that he didn't have the capabilities to join the build-up as other forwards could under Pep Guardiola.

Haaland joined City after they had spent two seasons playing without a recognised striker, instead using a false nine and controlling the midfield before sparking an attack when the space opened up. As a more direct, traditional striker, Haaland's arrival prompted City to change their style to accommodate the new signing, resulting in a record-breaking 18 months, five trophies, and a second-place finish in the Ballon d'Or.

However, Rodri has revealed how the Norwegian took his time to adapt to the approach of his new side, and has worked hard behind the scenes to improve his own involvement in City's build-up.

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Speaking to AS, Rodri said: "His sense of smell and his voracity have not changed, but those who know him from before and see him now will know that he is different in occupying spaces and knowing what to do. At first I noticed he was very anxious.

"He understood that we were a different team, with a lot of maturation of the ball, he knew that he was not going to participate as much, that he must wait for the moment to finish. These are things that one must adapt and learn. Now I see him much more positive.

"He catches me and he tells me: 'Rodri, match control, match control. Forget about me.' That's understanding the team. Besides, he has grown a lot in coming to receive, in letting off steam, in