Erling Haaland continues to set new benchmarks in football through his 2025/26 season performance. Despite a start that ranks as his second-best in the Premier League era, his impact on Manchester City and international football remains profound. Haaland has scored nine goals in his first seven Premier League games this season, leading the scoring charts by three goals over his nearest competitor, Antoine Semenyo. This strong start places him in the elite company of players with the best opening runs in the Premier League, where he himself holds the top two records from previous seasons.
Erling Haaland scored a brace today against Everton
Haaland’s Recent Performance Highlights
The striker has displayed remarkable consistency by scoring in nine consecutive appearances for club and country. This sequence includes a recent hat-trick against Israel, which took his international tally past 50 goals. His recent form includes 19 goals and three assists in his last 10 matches, averaging 1.36 goals per 90 minutes played. Notably, his expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes stands at 1.16, while the average expected goal value per shot is 0.27, underscoring his improved positioning and scoring efficiency.
Statistical Excellence and Efficiency
Haaland has scored 4 of his 9 goals at home and 5 on away grounds. His goal involvements, including goals and assists, reach 1.51 per 90 minutes. These statistics put him in the top 99th percentile and highlight his role as a key attacking threat without reliance on penalties. Over the past seasons, he has also improved defensive contributions, with increased touches in his own half, clearances, defensive interventions, and sprints per game compared to previous campaigns.
Impact on Manchester City
Haaland’s evolution into a more complete striker has coincided with a broader influence on Manchester City’s overall play. His touches in his own half have risen from 4.6 per 90 minutes in earlier seasons to eight per game this season. Defensive statistics confirm his growing role as a leader on the pitch with 4.3 defensive interventions per match, up from 2.8 previously, and an increase in the distance covered and sprints per game. Manager Pep Guardiola praised Haaland’s improvements, noting, “Erling has been incredible since the start, but this season he is better than ever.”
Manchester City in their last 11 games
Records and Milestones in Sight
Haaland continues to pursue records established in his first seasons at Manchester City. He is chasing his own record for the most goals in a single Premier League season, set at 36 goals in 2022/23. His ability to score in different stadiums is exceptional; he has now scored in 22 of the 23 Premier League grounds he has played on. This remarkable consistency demonstrates his adaptability and threat across various playing conditions and opposition.
International Career and Achievements
On the international front, Haaland has cemented his place as Norway’s all-time top scorer at just 24 years old. This achievement came after surpassing a record that stood since 1937. Recently, he scored five goals in a single World Cup qualifier against Moldova, becoming the first European male player to do so since 1977. Haaland also marked a first for Norway with their first victory over Italy in 25 years during World Cup qualifying.
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Statements from Haaland and Coaches
When asked if he was in the best form of his life following his recent goal, Haaland responded, “Yes, you can say so. I’ve never felt better than I do now.” Guardiola emphasised Haaland’s growing maturity and leadership on the pitch, stating that his development extends beyond scoring to include what is best for the team.
Conclusion
Erling Haaland’s 2025/26 season illustrates continued growth and refinement. His ability to consistently convert chances, contribute defensively, and influence Manchester City’s gameplay points to an increasingly comprehensive footballer. Statistical leaders across goals, assists, and defensive actions confirm his standing among the most complete strikers globally. As he chases existing records and sets new milestones, Haaland’s evolution demonstrates that he is indeed getting better. His ongoing form will remain closely watched by fans and analysts as he pushes the boundaries of modern football performance.
