It goes without saying that so far, Erling Haaland is the most in-form player in the Premier League.
Recently, Pep Guardiola revealed Haaland is “sharper” this season — mentioning that his previous campaign was blighted by constantly niggles and injuries.
The £375,000-a-week man continues to prove his manager right week in and week out as he bagged yet another hat-trick in Manchester City’s 3-1 win against West Ham United.
While City were largely a class apart, Julen Lopetegui’s side certainly had their moments in the game.
On the break, the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Jarrod Bowen caused Pep Guardiola’s men plenty of problems.
But Manchester City had the insurance policy of a certain Haaland in their ranks — who displayed the variety of finishes he has in his locker with his latest exploits.
From opening his body up to place the ball into the bottom corner to bludgeoning the ball from distance and dinking Lucas Fabianski, the £51 million man’s performance was a masterclass in finishing.
Gundogan hails Man City superstar after West Ham victory
The Hammers had a top-quality backline on display — featuring Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Konstantinos Mavropanos, Max Kilman and Emerson Palmieri.
However, the hosts’ defenders seemed merciless at the hands of the 24-year-old — who ran riot at the London Stadium from start to finish.
A Haaland-inspired triumph for Pep Guardiola’s men meant they won their first three games of the 2024/2025 Premier League season.
As things stand, the champions of England sit in first place after three games.
Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan celebrated his side’s win against West Ham on Instagram and went on to laud Haaland as well.
“Another win for us. This guy [Haaland] is just incredible.”
Ilkay Gundogan must be buzzing to play with Erling Haaland again
Considering Gundogan is well-aware of the extraordinary striker that Haaland is, he would be delighted to be sharing the pitch with him again.
As a number eight, who has an eye for a pass, one of the German’s main responsibilities will be to create chances for the two-time Premier League winner.
With Haaland already being an elite goalscorer and being in tremendous form, the 33-year-old’s life will be easier when he supplies him with chances.
The pair are yet to start a game in tandem since Gundogan’s return.
But once they do, this Manchester City side could go up yet another level.
Gundogan will be thanking Haaland for his heroics as the City players can head into the international break knowing that they are yet to put a foot wrong this season.
