Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland
Erling Haaland has already played alongside some of the most intelligent players of his generation at just 26 years old. However, one man stands out to the Norwegian as the 'smartest' he's shared the pitch with.
Haaland is already one of the greatest goalscorers in Premier League history, netting 112 goals in just 132 appearances to date. But every great goal-getter needs creative and clever players supplying them.
From Kevin De Bruyne to Martin Odegaard, Haaland has played alongside some incredibly smart footballers, but neither can match the football IQ of one Man City icon. In the striker's eyes at least.
Erling Haaland Full of Praise For Man City Superstar
Pep Guardiola and Erling Haaland
Man City have become one of the most dominant forces in world football over the past two decades, particularly during Pep Guardiola's reign from 2016 to 2026. The English club have spent an incredible amount of money on transfers over the years, meaning high turnover in the playing squad.
However, some players have been able to stick around due to their immense intelligence and ability, even under Guardiola. One of those men was Bernardo Silva, who has made more appearances under the Catalan-born coach than any other player in history (460).
Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne
Bernardo Silva and Kevin De Bruyne
That's an incredible record, considering Guardiola is one of the greatest managers of all time and has only ever managed world-class teams. Silva's role in the Citizens' line-up has evolved over the years, as he moved from a creative winger to a tempo-dictating midfielder. He even played at left-back a few times.
None of that would be possible without supreme intelligence and an unmatched understanding of what it takes to survive in a Guardiola team. Haaland was very complimentary of the Portuguese star ahead of his 2026 exit from the club.
"He's probably the smartest player I've ever played with because of the way he controls a game," Haaland told Sky Sports (via CityXtra).
Pep Guardiola Loved 'Intelligent' Bernardo Silva
Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs
Haaland isn't the only one who publicly appreciated Silva's unbelievable football brain. Guardiola was often complimentary of his loyal servant.
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Bernardo Silva's Manchester City Stats Under Pep Guardiola
Competition
Premier League
Champions League
FIFA Club World Cup
FA Cup
EFL Cup
Community Shield
Total
In 2021, the iconic manager noted Silva's ability to take on any role in the team. Guardiola raved: "Bernardo is so intelligent, he can play everywhere.
"He understands the game perfectly, he knows exactly what he has to do and where to play so there are no doubts. He’s back and I’m incredibly delighted for the two goals he scored and we need him."
Statistics in this article are courtesy of Transfermarkt. Correct as of 02-08-26.