Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne have only played alongside each other four times in 2024 and it’s already obvious what Manchester City have been missing.
De Bruyne has only recently returned from a severe hamstring tear that he suffered in the first game of the season.
The brilliant Belgian hasn’t missed a beat in his triumphant return, already claiming 10 goal contributions in just seven appearances.
Haaland missed 12 games due to a stress reaction in his foot but grabbed two decisive goals in Saturday’s win over Everton.
De Bruyne teed up the Norwegian sensation’s second strike as the pair combined for the first time in months to create a goal.
City’s midfield maestro loves playing with Haaland and has shared the best thing about doing so.
The best thing about playing with Erling Haaland
Speaking to City’s in-house media, De Bruyne explained that it’s easy to create chances for a striker as good as Haaland: “He’s been doing really well.
“Today he didn’t score but he was dangerous, and he created chances.
“He had the opportunities and that’s the thing he needs to do. He will score goals anyway.
“When you play with someone like him it’s easy to create chances – one of if not the best striker in the world.
“I know he’s going to be there, and the connection is made by itself – understanding what he wants and knowing each other.”
Erling Haaland getting back to his best
It would be easy for some cynics to try and criticise Haaland for his lack of goals against FC Copenhagen but they would be harsh and foolish.
The 23-year-old is finding his groove again after spending a significant stint on the sidelines, the longest he’s been out since signing for City.
It’s going to take a bit of time to get back to his best and, besides, he already has two goals and an assist in his four games back.
Thankfully, Pep Guardiola’s side aren’t relying quite as heavily on him scoring as they were last season.
Phil Foden has stepped up to the plate in a big way, De Bruyne is firing on cylinders and Julian Alvarez, Bernardo Silva and Rodri are chipping in as well.
As De Bruyne says, Haaland is still playing well and the goals will flow.
