Erling Haaland set yet another Premier League record to help Manchester City take control of their lunchtime showdown with Wolves on Saturday.
After receiving the ball from Bernardo Silva, the Norwegian, 22, was given much too much time to sprint into the final third and finish past Jose Sa from the edge of the box. His 16th-minute strike increased City’s lead at Molineux, after Jack Grealish scored less than a minute earlier after a straight-red challenge from Nathan Collins.
Haaland’s goal maintained his explosive start to life in England after his £51 million summer transfer from Borussia Dortmund, as he became the first player in Premier League history to score in his first four away outings. The former Molde and Red Bull Salzburg star has already smashed multiple records in England’s top flight, surpassing Sergio Aguero and Micky Quinn with nine goals in his first five games.
Nonetheless, City manager Pep Guardiola has stated that Haaland’s game still has potential for growth, a clear message to the defending champions’ local rivals. “I’ve said it many times, he’s a terrific striker,” the Spaniard remarked of his talismanic star.
“But at his age, I believe he has ambition, wants to be better, and I believe he will be better.” He’s the ideal person to manage. The most essential thing is that he is a lovely guy. He has maintained the same level of quality he had before coming here. We didn’t change much.”
Fans were not surprised when Haaland was named Premier League Player of the Month for August after scoring nine goals in five games.
“I am overjoyed to get this award for the first time,” he stated as he accepted it. “The squad had a tremendous start to the season, and I am grateful to everyone who voted.” We all wanted to get off to a fast start this season, so winning four games out of five was a terrific start for us in what is the most difficult tournament in the world.” “I am pleased to have contributed by scoring goals.” Hopefully, I will be able to continue to assist the club and maintain our excellent start to the season.”
In addition to scoring at an incredible rate in the Premier League, Haaland has been on fire in European competition. He scored twice against Sevilla in the Champions League group stage opener and stunned former club Dortmund with a late victory against the Bundesliga heavyweights in midweek.