Dietmar Hamann believes that Erling Haaland could be the Premier League’s top goalscorer next term, but it will depend on his ability to adapt to Manchester City’s style of play.
The Norwegian star has completed a move to the Etihad Stadium after the champions triggered a £51million release clause in his contract with Borussia Dortmund.
With Pep Guardiola’s side looking to retain their Premier League title next term, as well as challenging for the Champions League, the 21-year-old could have a big role to play and according to ex-City midfielder Hamann, the challenge for Haaland will be adapting to a new style of play.
Speaking on talkSPORT Drive, Hamann said: “I think he’s capable of scoring the most goals in the league next season because he’s in a team that probably will score the most goals in the league.
“He will get chances.
“Two things, he’s had quite a few muscle injuries in the last 18 months which for a young player is usually not a good sign, and he’s best when he’s got space because he’s got power and electric pace not just over five yards, but over 30 and 40 yards.
“If he’s got space he’s pretty much unstoppable, but he won’t get that space and Manchester City and it’s the first time that Guardiola has got an out and out forward.
“It’ll be interesting to see how they shape up but he’s an exceptional talent.”
Hamann added: “He [Guardiola] likes to play wide players or midfielders up top who like to link play – he’s good with his feet but he’s not as good as a Grealish, or a Foden, or a Sterling who have played up top.
“It’ll be interesting to see how they play because you’ve got to feed him, but I don’t think they’ll be able to play the way they used to play because the more direct you play, the more goals he’ll probably get you.
“It’s fascinating because last year I said I can see him going anywhere, but not Manchester City because he’s just not a player that Pep Guardiola wants up top.
“He’s got him now and maybe he thinks he’s got to change to win the biggest trophy in club football, the Champions League, but how they play remains to be seen.”
Source: Talk Sport