Erling Haaland: ‘I must enhance my goal-scoring performance’
Erling Haaland stated that he must “enhance” his performances for Manchester City after netting only two penalties in his last eight Premier League matches, asserting that he has no justifications for his dip in form.
The 25-year-old converted a stoppage time penalty to secure a 2-1 victory against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, having assisted Bernardo Silva for an equalizer in the 84th minute.
However, despite his decisive contribution against Arne Slot’s squad, Haaland’s search for a goal from open play in the league now extends back to a 2-0 victory over West Ham on December 20. The Norway international, who currently leads the Premier League Golden Boot race with 21 goals this season, acknowledges the need for improvement.
“I haven’t scored enough goals since the beginning of this year, you could say, and I recognize that I need to enhance my performance,” Haaland informed reporters.
“I understand that I need to be sharper, better in all aspects, and this is an area I must focus on.
“I must continue pushing forward because this is what everyone deserves and anticipates.
“I prefer not to discuss the reasons for my underperformance. I don’t believe there are any excuses. Fatigue is largely a mental issue.
“There are many matches. Look at the schedule; it’s challenging, and for me, it’s crucial to remain fit and avoid injuries.
“That is the most vital aspect. And I need to be prepared to assist the team.”
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City’s victory at Anfield marked the first time the club has achieved a league double over Liverpool since the 1936-37 season, allowing Guardiola’s team to reduce the gap to league leaders Arsenal to six points.
Mikel Arteta’s side is set to visit the Etihad on April 18 in what could be a title-deciding match, and Haaland asserts that City, who can narrow the gap to three points with a home win against Fulham on Wednesday, still believe they can surpass Arsenal.
“We’ve seen in the past that the title race is not concluded until it is truly over,” Haaland remarked.
“So for me right now, I need to go shower, return to the bus, recover, eat some nutritious food, and concentrate on Fulham, as there are still many matches ahead.”
