Chicharito has just pointed out the missing link for Erling Haaland to reach exceptional level.

Former striker Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez recently offered insightful professional assessments of Erling Haaland on the program.Rio Ferdinand PresentsAccording to the former Manchester United striker, although the Norwegian center forward is currently one of the most feared goalscorers in the world, he still has enormous potential for development if he improves his off-ball movement and tactical awareness.

Physical advantage and lessons in movement mindset

In his analysis, Chicharito points out a common problem among forwards with superior physique and speed. The former Mexican international argues that players with abundant physical strength tend to rely on their natural power rather than investing in tactical intelligence from the outset.

Chicharito candidly shared: "Haaland hasn't perfected his movements yet. He doesn't even need it. Fast and strong players aren't usually intelligent because they don't need it. But when you're no longer in good shape, or when you're no longer agile, you start thinking about how to utilize it. Like me."

Having made a strong impression in the Premier League with his intelligent positioning in the penalty area, Chicharito uses his own career as proof. He admits that he doesn't possess exceptional individual technique or the ability to beat opponents in one-on-one situations, but compensates with a keen sense of spatial awareness.

"You could say I'm an intelligent player. Maybe not technically brilliant, not one-on-one, or super talented, but I'm intelligent. That's why I feel Haaland can still become a better player than he is now. He's already great, but I think he can become outstanding," the former Red Devils star emphasized.

A stepping stone to the next stage

Chicharito's advice comes at a time when the 26-year-old striker has just enjoyed a stellar performance for his national team. Haaland scored 7 goals in the recent campaign, playing a major role in helping Norway reach the quarter-finals of the 2026 World Cup.

After a breakout summer, the Manchester City striker is currently resting at St Tropez before rejoining the team to prepare for the next objectives. If he incorporates the finesse in his movement, as suggested by Chicharito, Haaland could maintain his top-class goal-scoring performance even when facing increasingly tight marking from opposing defenses.