Erling Haaland continues to redefine goal-scoring standards in the Premier League. The Manchester City striker once again showcased why he is considered one of the best in the world, scoring twice in City’s emphatic 3-0 Manchester derby victory over Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium.
The 25-year-old Norwegian has now scored seven goals in a single week, following up his five-goal blitz in Norway’s 11-1 win over Moldova with a ruthless double against United.
Better Than Treble Year, Says Guardiola
Since arriving in 2022, Haaland has shattered records, netting 52 goals in his debut season to help Manchester City secure a historic Treble. Yet Pep Guardiola insists this version of Haaland is even stronger.
“Erling has been incredible since the start,” Guardiola said. “But this season, he is better than ever — even better than the Treble year. He’s a special player who has never disappointed.”
Haaland’s performance wasn’t just about scoring goals. He was pivotal in defense too, making six clearances, four of them headers, when United pressed for an equaliser early in the second half.
Within minutes of Guardiola calling him over to the touchline for tactical instructions, Haaland responded by doubling City’s lead with a delicate dink. Despite hitting the post with a near-open goal moments later, he quickly redeemed himself with a composed second finish to seal the derby win.
Phil Foden, who opened the scoring, described Haaland’s display as “a complete performance.”
“He did everything — scoring, defending, holding the ball, and running in behind. We need that full shift,” Foden said.
Even Manchester United legend Roy Keane gave credit to the City striker:
“He could have scored more, but his all-round play was superb. When you have one of the best strikers in the world running at you from halfway, there’s never any doubt he’ll finish.”
Chasing Alan Shearer’s All-Time Record
With every game, Haaland edges closer to rewriting Premier League history. Alan Shearer’s record of 260 Premier League goals has stood for nearly two decades, but Haaland’s scoring pace suggests it may fall far earlier than expected.
For Manchester City fans, the prospect of Haaland breaking Shearer’s record while delivering more trophies under Guardiola only adds to the growing belief that they are witnessing a once-in-a-generation striker at his absolute peak.
