Of all Manchester City’s players, no player currently carries a heavier burden than Erling Haaland. The Norway international has been City’s biggest goal threat so far this season. At times it looked like it was Haaland or a failure for the world champions in the final third. But ahead of Manchester City’s clash with Manchester United, Pep Guardiola’s side will need Haaland to once again lead the way at the Etihad. Even if he doesn’t score the scoresheet, the Manchester City superstar will need to bring the energy that only he can provide against their main rivals.
Generally, Haaland is only judged on the goals he scores. If he scores, everything is fine in the eyes of many. Overall, Haaland scores more goals than any other striker in the game. It has been his calling card since his arrival at Manchester City. It was his strong point long before he signed for Pep Guardiola. But there is another side to his game. He doesn’t get the praise his goals get. But if he brings it on Sunday, it could go a long way to helping City gain the upper hand over their main rivals.
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Just look at Haaland’s last three performances to see the influence he has. Against Juventus, in City’s 2-0 defeat, he was controlled and Manchester City suffered. He scored in City’s draw against Crystal Palace last weekend. But against Nottingham Forest in City’s 3-0 win, he dropped deep into midfield and became a threat outside of his goal. He set up Jeremy Doku’s goal against Forest with a superb assist. If the Manchester City superstar can perform like he did against Nottingham Forest in Sunday’s derby, it could go a long way in helping Manchester City secure a crucial victory at the Etihad.
Erling Haaland’s game is not limited to scoring goals. His performance against Nottingham Forest showed that. This is the performance the Manchester City superstar must deliver on Sunday. If he performs like he did against Forest, he could have a say in the Manchester derby this weekend. Of course, if he scores it will help City’s cause, but if he creates for others and opens up space for his teammates to thrive, it will be just as important for Pep Guardiola’s side.