Haaland ‘not stupid enough’ to leave Man City for Barcelona, says Guardiola

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola has laughed off reports linking Erling Haaland with a move to Barcelona, insisting the striker is "not stupid enough" to consider leaving the English giants after committing to a long-term deal.

Haaland, who has scored 11 goals in eight games this season, recently signed an extension keeping him at the Etihad until 2034.

Despite reports that Barcelona president Joan Laporta hopes to make the Norwegian the centrepiece of his re-election campaign, Guardiola believes Haaland's future is secure in Manchester.

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"I think Erling isn't stupid enough to sign something he doesn't want to accomplish, that is for sure," Guardiola told reporters.

"But it's football, who knows what is going to happen. Honestly, I don't know what is going to happen. I know he has a long contract here, and I think he's doing really well and scoring a lot of goals."

The City boss acknowledged the universal demand for Haaland but dismissed the idea of him moving anytime soon.

"Can you tell me one club that wouldn't dream of Erling Haaland? I understand Barcelona dream of Erling, and all the clubs in the world," Guardiola said. "If Erling would not be with us, it would be a dream for Man City to have Erling. I had the feeling the team helps him a lot and gives him."