Erling Haaland has begun his second season in English football just as spectacularly as his debut season, making a resounding impact with two goals in the opening game, setting the stage for Manchester City to defend their Premier League title.
The Norwegian striker delivered clinical finishes in the 4th and 36th minutes on Friday as Manchester City comfortably cruised to a 3-0 victory over newly promoted Burnley, led by former City player Vincent Kompany, in the first match of the Premier League season. Midfield anchor Rodri scored the other goal.
Haaland had an outstanding first year at Man City, netting a total of 52 goals across all competitions, including 36 in the Premier League, helping Pep Guardiola’s team clinch a historic treble of Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
He began the previous season with a brace against West Ham, signaling what was to come, and he made another statement at Turf Moor, even though it didn’t entirely satisfy Guardiola. The City manager entered the pitch during halftime and had words with Haaland as they headed towards the tunnel, even going as far as knocking away a camera documenting their exchange.
Manchester City’s coach, Pep Guardiola, talks to player Erling Haaland during halftime of the Premier League soccer match between Manchester City and Burnley FC at Turf Moor, Burnley, England, Friday, August 11, 2023.
“We’re still in the early stages of this marathon race, and I’m not stressed. I feel comfortable,” Haaland commented. “I have to keep developing and enjoy the chaos around me while delivering on the pitch.”
It wasn’t a flawless evening for Man City, who are striving to become the first team in English football history to win four consecutive top-tier titles. Kevin De Bruyne, starting for the first time since his early substitution in the Champions League final due to a hamstring issue, played for 23 minutes before being forced off the field.
