Erling Haaland and Alexander Isak (Photo: Michael Regan, Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is looking for a subtle excavation in Liverpool’s new record-breaking signature, Alexander Isaac, claiming Erling Haaland is still slightly above him.
The Reds charged a British record transfer fee to sign Isaac from Newcastle United this summer, but Guardiola doesn’t seem to agree that he is the best striker in the world.
Arne Slot said Isak is the best. This was placed at Guardiola at today’s press conference.
Guardiola felt that Haaland deserved to be on top of Isak, so Guardiola clearly disagrees with the slot, so please see the video clip below…
The Spanish tactician went on to say he knew football was merely an opinion, and admitted that others would probably say Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo was the best.
Still, he also insisted that he would not trade Haaland with anyone.
Alexander Isak vs Erling Haaland – Who has better statistics?
Statistics alone won’t answer any questions like this perfectly, but it’s interesting to look at the numbers anyway.
See below for Datamb’s graphics comparing the pros and cons of Haaland and Isak last season.
Haaland is ahead of Isaac with his aviation threat, but they are very similar to goals other than box touches and penalties.
Still, Isak appears to be more balanced as a creator due to his expected assist, but he also has a slightly higher conversion rate.
When it comes to goals last season, Haaland is certainly on top…
| Player 2024/25 | game | the goal |
| Erling Haaland | 48 | 34 |
| Alexander Isaac | 42 | 27 |
With him in Liverpool, it will be interesting to see how they compare this season and beyond.
That should theoretically give him the opportunity to score, as the Reds dominate the game and create opportunities over Newcastle, but of course football doesn’t always follow that logical path.
