Colin Hendry on How to Challenge Erling Haaland: ‘F*ck Knows!’
Colin Hendry, who once defended for Manchester City, shared his thoughts on how to deal with Erling Haaland in an exclusive interview with GOAL. The prolific striker presents questions that are tough to answer. The Norway forward is part of football's global elite, with very few able to contain his threat.
Haaland’s Goal Record at Manchester City
Gabriel Magalhaes from Arsenal is thought to have come closest to containing Haaland, having faced him multiple times in Premier League matches. Yet even he admits to being humbled occasionally by the striker’s ability.
- Premier League goals: 112
- Total goals for City: 162 in 198 appearances
- Golden Boots won: 3
- Historic achievement: Part of City's 2022-23 Treble-winning team
A Decade-Long Commitment at the Etihad
The club secured Haaland on a remarkable 10-year contract lasting until 2034, ensuring his presence will challenge opponents in the Premier League for years ahead. Despite interest from clubs like Real Madrid, he remains focused on success with City.
His ambitions include adding more major trophies and reasserting himself as a Ballon d’Or contender. His individual performances set a high bar, and maintaining them will be key.
Is There a Way to Stop Haaland?
With Haaland showing no sign of slowing, especially after making his World Cup debut with Norway, the question is how defenders can hold him back. Does he have any weaknesses?
“I’ll answer that, f*ck knows!” said Hendry when asked. “You know how Arsenal’s centre-backs, Gabriel, handle him? He’s a class act. If anything, I’d try to rattle him a bit. I’ve spoken before about facing Ronaldo in ’98. I didn’t try to wind him up then, but I aimed to play my best and test myself. It would be the same against Haaland.”“I’m not saying Haaland is a modern-day Ronaldo, but there’s a similarity in what defenders think facing these players. When Haaland charges at you full speed, it’s like a juggernaut. It reminded me of playing against Ronaldo in ’98, but Haaland is unique right now.”“We’ve seen players like Luis Suarez, Sergio Aguero, Romario — all tough forwards. But Haaland really stands out and puts fear into defenders unlike anyone else.”“I’d try to get under his skin. That’s old-school, maybe the current players aren’t as physical or fit. Ideally, they’d confront him head-on using his strengths against him, then try to provoke a reaction.”
Looking Ahead: Haaland and Manchester City’s New Season
Haaland has returned to training for the 2026-27 season, now under new management as Enzo Maresca takes over from Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium. The striker will want to make an impact early in this fresh chapter.
He could feature in the Community Shield match against Arsenal in Cardiff on August 16, before City begin their Premier League title defense against Bournemouth on August 23 at home.
- Community Shield: Arsenal vs Manchester City, August 16, 16:00
- Premier League opener: Manchester City vs Bournemouth, August 23
