Erling Haaland acknowledges that the season has “not met expectations” following his hat trick in the FA Cup match against Liverpool.

Erling Haaland has remarked that his season has been “too inconsistent” after regaining his scoring touch with a hat trick against Liverpool.

The Norwegian forward has faced challenges in 2026, with most of his goals this season being scored prior to Christmas.

However, he appeared to be back in form at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, netting three goals—his first club hat trick since August 2024—as City secured a 4-0 victory, advancing to a record eighth consecutive FA Cup semifinal.

“It has been too inconsistent, which has not been satisfactory,” Haaland told TNT Sports.

“Currently, we have a long week ahead since we are not in the Champions League, which is not acceptable, but we must prepare for Chelsea, which is another match.”

Haaland opened the scoring with a penalty before adding a remarkable header just before the interval.

His third goal came after a shot that struck the underside of the crossbar from Nico O’Reilly’s assist.

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After the match, City assistant Pep Lijnders, who was on the sidelines in place of the suspended Pep Guardiola, described Haaland’s second goal from Antione Semenyo’s cross as “insane.”

“I have worked with many excellent strikers who score a lot,” Lijnders stated.

“The second goal was insane, the way he attacked—he flies—and the way he placed the ball into the corner. I appreciate these classic striker goals.”

Haaland received additional rest from Norway during the international break and was requested to participate in only one of their two matches.

This is likely to be his final break before the conclusion of the World Cup, and Lijnders indicated that it may have been beneficial for the 25-year-old.

“It is remarkable what we are demanding [of Haaland],” he noted.

“Press and run in the box and maintain possession—there are numerous tasks we require, and to do that every three days.

“Not everything in a lengthy season will go your way, but it demonstrates character and mentality that he returns in such a manner. He is a machine to work with.”