Manchester City’s superstar needs to lead the way on Sunday | OneFootball

Of all of Manchester City’s players, perhaps no player carries a heavier burden currently than Erling Haaland. The Norwegian international has been City’s biggest goal-scoring threat so far this season. At times it has appeared to be Haaland or bust for the world champions in the final third. But ahead of Manchester City’s clash with Manchester United Pep Guardiola’s side will need Haaland to lead the way once again at the Etihad. Even if he doesn’t hit the scoresheet, Manchester City’s superstar will need to bring the energy that only he can provide against their arch-rivals.

Typically Haaland is only judged on the goals he scores. If he scores all is well in the eyes of many. Generally speaking, Haaland scores more goals than any other striker in the game. That has been his calling card since he arrived at Manchester City. It was his forte well before he signed for Pep Guardiola’s side. But there is another side to his game. It doesn’t get the accolades that his goal-scoring does. But if he brings it on Sunday it could go a long way in helping City get one over on their arch rivals.

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You only have to look at Haaland’s past three performances to see the influence he has. Against Juventus, during City’s 2-nil defeat, he was subdued and Manchester City suffered for it. He scored during City’s 2-all draw against Crystal Palace last weekend. But against Nottingham Forest in City’s 3-nil win, he dropped deep into midfield and became a threat outside of his goal-scoring. He set up Jeremy Doku’s goal against Forest with a superb assist. If Manchester City’s superstar can play like he did against Nottingham Forest in the derby on Sunday it could go a long way in helping Manchester City pick up a crucial victory at the Etihad.

There is more to Erling Haaland’s game than just scoring goals. His performance against Nottingham Forest showed that. That’s the performance that Manchester City’s superstar needs to provide on Sunday. If he plays as he did against Forest then he could have a big say in this weekend’s Manchester derby. Of course, if he scores that will help City’s cause but if he creates for others and opens up space for his teammates to prosper that will be just as important to Pep Guardiola’s side.