Although he’s only at the start of his third season at Manchester City, Erling Haaland is undoubtedly the embodiment of Pep Guardiola’s side—strong, resilient, and precise. Since his arrival two seasons ago, he has been a perfect fit, securing back-to-back league titles and golden boots. The Norwegian striker has silenced any doubts about whether he could dominate the Premier League after coming from the German league.
Haaland continued his stellar start to the season over the weekend, scoring a brace to secure City’s fourth straight win. Guardiola’s men were trailing Brentford by a goal in the first minute, but Haaland’s strikes in the 19th and 32nd minutes turned the game around, sealing the win and bringing his goal tally for the season to nine in just four games.
However, the most impressive part of Haaland’s performance wasn’t just his goals. The 24-year-old Norwegian had the option to miss the game, with Guardiola’s full support, after the recent loss of a close family friend who had been his father Alfie’s best man. Guardiola offered Haaland the chance to sit the match out to mourn the loss, but Haaland declined, demonstrating his unwavering commitment. Thanks to his “never say die” attitude, the City number 9 broke a 13-year standing record for the most goals scored in the first four games of a Premier League season. The previous record was held by Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney, who scored eight goals in the opening four games of the 2011-2012 Premier League season.
What’s more, Haaland could break another record when City hosts Inter Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday. The record for the fastest 100 goals for a single team is currently held by Cristiano Ronaldo, who achieved 100 goals for Real Madrid in 105 games. Haaland’s current tally for Manchester City stands at 99 goals in 103 appearances, meaning one more goal in his 104th appearance would set a new record.
