What Ilkay Gundogan wants from Erling Haaland in Champions League final as he sends Man City warning

Manchester City feel Erling Haaland can cap a sensational debut season at the club by playing a key role in the Champions League final, his captain Ilkay Gundogan says.

Haaland has 52 goals and nine assists in 52 appearances for City, setting numerous records along the way, and already has two trophies to his name. If he can help City beat Inter Milan on Saturday, he will add the Champions League to his growing collection.

However, Haaland's incredible scoring rate has slowed of late, scoring just one in his last seven appearances, so he will be hoping to end the season with a bang in Istanbul vs Inter Milan.

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Backing his striker, Gundogan explained how Haaland has transformed the way City play this season, and predicted one last headline-making performance in the Champions League final.

"Right now, he might be the best striker in the world. He brings so much to our team," Gundogan told UEFA.

"He gives us a different quality, with his physical strength, with his mentality, with his speed and with his goals too, of course. The last couple of years, we didn't have a classic No.9 in the team. Therefore we needed to play a bit more flexibly, a bit differently.

"Now we know that we have someone in the box who can control the ball, including high aerial balls. He is very good with his head and can win battles against tall, strong centre-backs. This adds a whole new dimension to our game. It gives us a new dynamic. And in addition, he brings a great mentality and character. He has helped us a lot already. Let's hope he can also help us in the final."

Gundogan also sent a warning regarding opponents Inter Milan, telling his City