Pep Guardiola could use Erling Haaland to unlock dormant Kevin De Bruyne perks for Man City

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Manchester City have operated without a fixed striker for around two years at the Etihad. Pep Guardiola has been forced to establish a strikerless system of sorts in order to navigate the problem.

It hasn't hindered the Etihad outfit too much. City have picked up two Premier League titles while in the process of searching for an heir to Sergio Aguero's throne.

Guardiola has been willing to wait in order to acquire the very best replacement and this summer, he will get his man. Erling Haaland will lead the line for his team next season, with the Norwegian striker regarded as a future Ballon d'Or winner.

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Still just 21 years old, Haaland has all of the qualities to be an elite striker for the next decade, and his unique skill set captures why he was worth the wait.

Unlike many of his peers, the future star doesn't seem to be reliant on one specific approach in order to thrive. He's flexible and equipped to cope regardless of his surroundings or place within a system.

Haaland is a physical presence - standing 6ft 3in - who can occupy an entire defensive line on his own. He's a threat in the air and his instinct allows him to pose danger from crosses. On top of his size, he's also remarkably quick.

Borussia Dortmund used him as a threat in behind after he arrived in the Bundesliga. A large percentage of his shots in Germany originated from through balls, which is why Kevin De Bruyne could be the man to unlock his potential in Manchester.

De Bruyne, much like Haaland, is a multifaceted attacker. The Belgian international is complete enough to adapt, and he isn't limited by any specific means of generating chances for his teammates.

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