Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has claimed that Manchester City forward Erling Haaland is "almost like a League Two player" when considering what he offers in "general play".
Haaland, 23, has scored 81 goals and registered 15 assists in 87 appearances for Man City since arriving at the Etihad Stadium from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022.
The Norway international netted 52 goals to help the Citizens win the treble last season, while he has managed 29 goals in 35 appearances this term, with Pep Guardiola's side chasing another famous trio of trophies.
Haaland found it difficult to make his mark during Sunday's Premier League clash against Arsenal, though, with the two teams sharing the points in a goalless draw.
Keane hit out at the Norwegian after the clash with the Gunners, claiming that he is "almost like a League Two player" when looking at what he offers away from the penalty box.
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"The levels of his general play is so poor. Not just today, I think his laying stuff off, headers, whatever it might be - in front of goal he's the best in the world - but for his general play for such a player it is so poor... he has to improve that," Keane told Sky Sports News on Sunday.
"He's almost like a League Two player, that's the way I look at him. His general play has to improve, and it will do over the next few years."
Keane also claimed that Liverpool are now the favourites to win the Premier League title, with Jurgen Klopp's side moving to the top of the division with their 2-1 success over Brighton & Hove Albion on Sunday.
The Merseyside giants are two points clear of second-placed Arsenal and three ahead of third-placed Man City, with all three sides having played 29 matches.
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Keane puts Liverpool as title favourites
"I think Liverpool, I'd have them favourites. Arsenal second favourites with their goal difference. City with their injuries and the strain of everything - Champions League coming up, same as Arsenal - [third favourites]," Keane added when asked about the race for the title.
"Every time I watch Liverpool, we can look at one or two faults they might have, but they get so many chances every game, they're going to score lots of goals. I've said Man City [previously] but what I've seen recently, I'm going to go with Liverpool."
Arsenal will have the chance to return to the top of the table on Wednesday evening, when they welcome relegation-threatened Luton Town to the Emirates Stadium.
Man City will also be in action on Wednesday, welcoming Aston Villa to the Etihad Stadium, with the visitors battling to keep hold of fourth position in the table.
Liverpool will have to wait until Thursday evening before returning to action, though, with the current leaders hosting basement side Sheffield United, three days before heading to Manchester United.
Matt Law
