Ahead of Manchester City’s home game against Brighton, the oft-reliable Erling Haaland was in the midst of the Premier League’s longest scoring drought, but he needed just 19 minutes to break that spell on Saturday.
The 23-year-old striker, who scored 36 Premier League goals in his debut season for Pep Guardiola, has struggled a bit to score goals (well, by his absurdly high standards).
But Norwegian Julian Alvarez doubled City’s lead with a stunning goal against Brighton after Julian Alvarez had opened the scoring.
It was actually a rare goal from Holland, who struck the ball into the bottom right corner from outside the penalty area.
Of Haaland’s 61 goals for the Citizens, only two have come from outside the penalty area, with another goal coming against Wolves on September 17 last year for Roberto De Zerbi’s side.
Haaland’s efforts at the Etihad took him to 45 Premier League goals on Saturday, surpassing Ilkay Gundogan’s record in England’s top flight.
The former Borussia Dortmund forward has yet to go three consecutive Premier League games without scoring, which is an incredible record.
Manager Pep Guardiola believes Haaland should win the Ballon d’Or after a record season at City.
“I’ve always said that the Ballon d’Or should have two sides: one for Messi and one for everyone else.”
Halaand must win.
We won the treble because he scored 52 goals, but Messi clearly has the worst season, the best of many players.
They both deserve it.
“Selfishly, I’d say I prefer Erling because he helped us achieve what we achieved. I like him, but I’m not saying it would be unfair if Leo wins.”
Coach Guardiola added: “It’s great to see so many of Manchester City’s players back and fighting for trophies for the first time in many years.
I’m very proud of our organisation.”
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