Erling Haaland scored twice in Manchester City’s game against Bournemouth but missed out on a hat-trick as he came on as a substitute – the Norwegian admits the footballer won’t be happy
“There were probably some fantasy managers who weren’t too happy,” Erling Haaland admitted after coming on as a substitute during Manchester City’s win over Bournemouth while completing a hat-trick.
The Norwegian continued his sensational goalscoring streak, scoring two goals in the first half to put the hosts ahead. He led City twice but was sent off with 10 minutes remaining as the Cherries suffered their second Premier League defeat of the season.
It denied City’s No. 9 the chance to score his ninth hat-trick in England’s top flight and, incredibly, it was the 15th time Pep Guardiola had sent him off just one goal away from winning the treble.
Haaland’s incredible goalscoring – 13 goals in the league and 17 in all competitions – has made him a huge hit in the fantasy arena. The Norwegian has so far scored more points than anyone else in the FPL and is also the most selected player.
He was clearly well aware of his popularity and confessed that many players would not have been happy to see him leave the pitch. It came a week after Haaland was sacked for the second time this season in the defeat to Aston Villa, but City got back to winning ways.
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He told Sky Sports: “It’s an important win. It’s good to bounce back after a bad loss away. It was good. I did my job and tried to contribute to the team. I’m glad we got the win. We have two important games coming up so we need to stay focused. I didn’t score in the last game, but I’m trying to help the team win. That’s my goal, it doesn’t matter if I score or contribute to a win in a duel. I want to help the team get better, that’s my job.”
Haaland also praised summer signing Rayan Cherki from Lyon for both goals. The playmaker had an injury-hit start to his time in Manchester, but was in good form on Sunday, registering two assists.
Bournemouth have only lost once since their opening game loss to Liverpool, who sit in the top four. They remain fourth despite defeat at the Etihad, and David Brooks admits preparing Haaland for that is an almost impossible task given his quality.
“Haaland, their top big man, is always going to be a threat. It’s almost impossible[to prepare to play against Haaland]. He’s 6ft 5in, strong and a big threat when the ball falls to him. He took his chances well.”
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