Sergio Agüero Exclusive February Interview - Insights & Predictions

We recently caught up with Stake Ambassador and football legend Sergio Agüero ahead of the upcoming Premier League fixtures where he shared his insights and predictions, as well as discussing all things Premier League, MLS & the upcoming 2026 International Soccer Tournament. Check out our exclusive interview below, and get the latest soccer betting odds when you join Stake Sportsbook.

How do you think Erling Haaland can improve his overall game?

Erling has always had a unique ability to score goals. He has shown that at every club and with his national team. He has been very consistent, which is not easy to maintain. That instinct for goal is something only a few players have. At City, he has improved his understanding of the game a lot. I see him better in that aspect compared to when he first arrived. He is only 25, so he still has a lot of room to grow. I also know he takes great care of his body. Erling doesn’t need too much advice. He is very professional. Taking care of his body is key. If he keeps doing that, we will see an even more consistent Haaland in the future.

Phil Foden and competition for places

Phil deserves to play as much as possible. He is getting back to his best level and he is one of those players you always want in your team. The ball sticks to his feet. He has vision, a great shot and he scores goals. He is very complete and needs to be close to the ball. That helps the team a lot.

The more minutes he plays, the better he will perform. He is a club guy, loved by everyone, and I have a lot of affection for him.

Abdukodir Khusanov’s development

He has had very good games this year. He went through a normal adaptation process and now we can see the results. He is strong, very fast and wins duels. He is only 22, so that means City has a great defender for many years.

James Trafford’s future

Trafford has shown in the games he played, especially in the League Cup and FA Cup, that he is a great goalkeeper. But that’s how competition works in a squad, especially as a goalkeeper. He has to compete with a top player like Donnarumma, and that makes it harder to start. It’s normal that he wants more minutes. Time will tell what is best for him.

Replacing Pep Guardiola

Pep still has one more year on his contract, so talking about his successor now feels too early. It only creates noise. When the time comes, the club will decide. There will always be candidates, and City will know who the best replacement is.

Julián Álvarez and a possible move

I’ve read about that in the press. There are always rumours. Barcelona was also mentioned. A player like Julián will always be wanted by big clubs. I see him very well at Atlético. He is loved there and he performs at a high level. A transfer depends on many things. But he could adapt perfectly to Arteta’s Arsenal or Flick’s Barcelona. He is very complete, quality, hard work and goals.

Playing better without Haaland?

Did they really say that? I can’t believe it. A player like Erling, with that number of goals, cannot be questioned because he doesn’t score in a few games. It’s always better to have him in the starting eleven. He creates fear in defenders. Now City also has more attacking options. The arrival of Semenyo, who also scores goals, helps share the goals. That’s good for the team.

Is the Premier League weaker now?

I don’t think so. It’s still the most competitive league in the world. The games are very attractive and it has some of the best players. Many teams can fight for the title. That doesn’t happen in other leagues where only two or three teams compete. That’s why the Premier League is the most exciting.

Champions League favorites

From what we’ve seen, Arsenal is very well positioned. They are complete, intense and have young players with experience now. Bayern also looks very strong and solid. But you can’t forget City, Barcelona and of course Real Madrid. We all know what Madrid can do in the Champions League.

2026 International Soccer Tournament in the USA

It will be a great tournament with a new format. The USA always delivers a big show and strong organization. Argentina will defend the title and will always be a candidate. Brazil, Spain, Germany, England and France too. It will also depend on the matchups. Teams like Morocco and Portugal have shown they can compete at a very high level.

Messi’s impact in the USA

It’s undeniable. There is a before and after in the MLS with Leo’s arrival. Inter Miami is now the most valuable club. Every stadium he plays in is full. Fans enjoy watching him. Messi gave the MLS the boost it needed to grow and become more important.

Argentina winning the 2026 International Soccer Tournament

It was an incredible moment for all Argentinians. It had been a long time since we won an International Soccer Tournament. It was a great tournament and the final was, in my opinion, the best ever. Leo deserved it. The whole group and the coaching staff too. I felt very happy for them. I couldn’t be there because of my heart problem, but they made me feel part of it. Not just me, but many other players who were part of the process. That shows the greatness of Leo and the team. Being able to celebrate with them is one of the most beautiful memories I have.