Haaland could top Ronaldos Champions League scoring record, says Guardiola

Sign up now: Get STs newsletters delivered to your inbox

MANCHESTER, England - Manchester Citys Erling Haaland shattered another scoring record in their 2-0 Champions League victory over visitors Napoli on Thursday and boss Pep Guardiola believes his talented striker might one day be the best player in Europe.

The 25-year-old Norwegian became the quickest player in Champions League history to hit 50 goals in what was his 49th appearance in Europes elite competition when he cleverly headed home Phil Fodens perfectly-placed flick in the 56th minute.

He smashed the record held by former Manchester United and Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, who reached 50 goals in 62 games.

The number speaks for itself, Guardiola said. Hes alongside in terms of goals with Van Nistelrooy, (Robert) Lewandowski, but especially with the two monsters Cristiano (Ronaldo) and (Lionel) Messi over 15, 20 years. Erling is there. In terms of goals, its unbelievable.

Ronaldo is the all-time Champions League top scorer with 140 goals. Asked if Haaland -- given his numbers at such a young age -- could one day top that mark, Guardiola did not hesitate.

If (he keeps up) that rhythm? Yeah, the Spaniard said. He can play I dont know how many years, 10, 12 years, I would say if he maintains this progression, absolutely.

Guardiola was equally effusive about Foden, who scored in Citys 3-0 thrashing of Manchester United on Sunday in his first start of the season and was excellent again on Thursday.

Foden was named PFA Player of the Season for the 2023-24 campaign but his form vanished last term and the goals dried up.

You cannot imagine how we missed Phil, Guardiola said. Last two games have been the Phil that we