Even though Erling Haaland scored twice in Manchester City's 3-1 Premier League victory against Leeds, Pep Guardiola noted that Haaland is still not at his best following his injury.
Rodri had given City the lead in first-half stoppage time, but despite Pascal Struijk's late header for Leeds, the outcome was never in question thanks to two goals from Haaland in the second half.
Since joining City from Dortmund in the summer, Norway's Haaland has scored 26 goals in 20 games across all competitions, including 20 in 14 Premier League games.
Guardiola, whose side moved back up to second and closed the gap on leaders Arsenal to five points, said: ‘He misses chances, but the numbers are exceptional.
‘He’s an incredible threat for us and always in the right position the right time, really good.
‘I think he is still not at his best because of the injury, to move his huge body is not easy for him, but as much as he can play minutes, (he) will be better.’
Haaland, who transferred to City from Borussia Dortmund in June for £52.1 million, was reportedly still dealing with a foot injury he acquired during his team's goalless Champions League tie with his old team in October, according to Guardiola.
‘I have the feeling he is not at his best,’ Guardiola added. ‘It is a matter of time. Always an incredible threat for the opponent.
‘Of course we are delighted, but that little (bit of extra) pace he had at the beginning of the season, he struggles a little bit.
‘I am still more than satisfied, but the first part of the season he was sharper. He is getting better, incredible professional. He takes care of his body and mind.’
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