Erling Haaland stole the spotlight with a sensational four-goal haul as Manchester City thrashed Wolves 5-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, mounting pressure on Arsenal in the thrilling Premier League title race.
Arsenal’s earlier 3-0 triumph over Bournemouth had temporarily stretched their lead to four points, intensifying the stakes for City. However, Guardiola’s side responded emphatically, reducing the gap to just one point with three matches remaining, compared to Arsenal’s two.
Haaland, often criticised for not replicating his exceptional debut season in Manchester, silenced critics with a masterclass in finishing, elevating his season’s goal tally to an impressive 36 goals in 41 appearances.
“Erling is back to business,” said Guardiola, praising Haaland’s remarkable performance.
“Penalties are a guarantee, but the second and fourth goals were unbelievable.”
Guardiola attributed Haaland’s temporary dip in form earlier in the season to an injury setback, acknowledging the time needed for the towering striker to regain his peak condition.
Despite City’s collective performance not quite matching the heights of the previous season, they are on course for a potential Premier League and FA Cup double.
With crucial fixtures against Fulham and Tottenham looming, followed by a showdown against West Ham on the final day, Guardiola stressed the importance of securing maximum points in every remaining game to maintain their title charge.
Wolves, who had previously inflicted one of Man City’s rare defeats this season, found themselves overwhelmed as City extended their formidable unbeaten home streak to 43 games.
Haaland’s dominance was evident as he converted two penalties and showcased his aerial prowess with a powerful header. His clinical finishing ensured City’s victory, demonstrating his lethal form against Wolves once again at the Etihad.
