PEP GUARDIOLA criticized Roy Keane’s “League Two” insult at Erling Haaland, calling him “the best striker in the world”.
In response, the Manchester City manager maintained, “I am not going to criticise my colleagues when I retire.”
Keane, a Manchester United star, criticized City’s 81-goal Treble champion of having “the movement of a League Two player” following Sunday’s goalless draw with title rivals Arsenal.
When asked about former Sunderland and Ipswich coach Keane’s remark, Guardiola responded: “I disagree with him. It’s as if I said he was a manager in the second or third league. I do not think so.
“So Erling is the best striker in the world and he helped us win what we did last season.”
Guardiola does not intend to work as a commentator after leaving the dugout because he believes that most of the criticism ex-players give current stars is unfair.
He stated, “I am surprised when it comes from former players.” It’s like when officials retire, they constantly criticize the refs.
“It always surprises me. The memory goes quickly. They had the same challenges as the players do now.
They missed it a thousand, million times and were wounded by criticism from former teammates.
“I don’t know what’s going to happen in the future but I am not a guy who is going to criticise my colleagues when I retire.”
Guardiola admits today’s high-paid stars must take criticism in stride, saying, “It’s their job, accept it.
“If you can’t accept it as a footballer you have to dedicate to another job, like read books or . . .”
Keane was not the only former player who questioned Haaland’s performance against the Gunners, but City’s manager disagreed.
Haaland scored 52 goals in his first season in England and has 29 this season, despite missing two months due to injury.
He may add to his score in tonight’s crucial Premier League match against Aston Villa.
Guardiola, 53, continued: “We played an outstanding game against Arsenal. I reviewed it.
“Erling was not to blame for our lack of opportunities. “He’s exceptional.”