I owe so much to Pep – Erling Haaland honoured to win FWA award | OneFootball

Erling Haaland hailed the influence of Pep Guardiola after his record-breaking season saw the striker named the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year.

The Norwegian garnered more than 80% of the overall vote to cap a sensational debut season in the Premier League with Manchester City.

Alongside City team mate Ruben Dias, Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola and former Tottenham forward Jurgen Klinsmann, Haaland became just the fourth player to land the award in his debut campaign in England.

Haaland paid tribute to the hard work done behind the scenes at City to make the adjustment to life in England so seamless.

Speaking to ManCity.com, Haaland said: “To win the Football Writers’ Award in my first season in English football is an honour.

“I try every single day to be the best I can be, and to be recognised like this means a lot to me.

“I have loved my time at City so far – my teammates are incredible, and they provide me with the chances to score goals.

“I want to thank all of them, because I could not have won this award without them.

“I also owe so much to Pep and the team behind the team here at City.

“Everybody has been so good to me since I joined and I have never worked with such top professionals.

“Thank you to everyone who voted for me. It’s a real honour to have won this award.

“I am now focused on ensuring I finish the season as strongly as possible and helping City win trophies.”