Erling Haaland calm amid Man City's slump, talks Pep Guardiola and future

It's the first time such a streak has occurred under Pep Guardiola's management. Despite the concerning run, one player who appears unfazed is Erling Haaland.

The Norwegian striker addressed the situation in an interview with Sky Sports, offering a calm perspective: "It's not that bad, it's not like we've been relegated. We're still second in the league, and there are plenty of games left to play."

Haaland credited Guardiola for maintaining composure during the challenging period. "He's been calm. We didn't give enough, and we lost four games. But we'll focus on winning the next one, starting with today's training, then tomorrow's, and finally the match."

The forward also showered praise on his manager, hailing him as the driving force behind the team's success: "He's the best manager in the world, probably the greatest ever. His hunger, his ability to develop players, and his desire to win are unmatched. I hope he stays for a long time."

Guardiola recently extended his stay at City, which Haaland celebrated, saying: "Pep has been so important for me over the past two and a half years. I hope he likes me as much as I like him."

City's focus now shifts to securing Haaland's long-term future. Reports suggest the club have offered the prolific striker a new deal worth £500,000 per week, making him the Premier League's highest earner, surpassing teammate Kevin De Bruyne.

However, negotiations have hit a snag over Haaland's release clause. Currently set at £150 million, City are keen to remove it entirely.

Haaland's representatives, however, favour keeping it in place. According to media reports, a compromise could see the clause rise to £200 million.

As talks continue, the ball is firmly in Haaland's court, with City determined to secure their talisman's future.

READ MORE: Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard in doubt for Arsenal's Nottingham Forest game