In remarks reflecting a highly professional mindset, Norwegian star Erling Haaland , the Manchester City striker, admitted to experiencing a period of fluctuation in his goal-scoring form at the start of 2026. Despite the numbers that some might consider worrying compared to his record, the "Viking" refused to use physical fatigue as an excuse for this decline, stressing his full commitment to fighting to maintain his team's chances of winning the English Premier League title.
The spirit returns at the Anfield summit
Haaland's comments came after a heroic performance in last Sunday's top-of-the-table clash, where he rescued his team from a draw against Liverpool. The match, which unfolded dramatically, began with City falling behind to a stunning free-kick from Hungarian Dominik Szoboszlai, before Haaland provided the assist for Bernardo Silva's equalizer. Then, in the dying moments of stoppage time, with remarkable composure amidst the roar of the Anfield crowd, Haaland stepped up to convert a crucial penalty, securing a valuable 2-1 victory for his team and reducing the gap to league leaders Arsenal to just six points.
The language of numbers: between totality and details
Despite the criticism, Haaland's overall statistics remain formidable, having scored 28 goals in 36 appearances across all competitions this season. However, the criticism has focused on his goal drought in the Premier League from open play since late December, managing just three goals in his last 13 matches. Regarding this, Haaland said: "I'm fully aware that my recent goalscoring record hasn't been up to par, and I know I need to be more clinical and direct on the pitch.".
Champion mindset: Fatigue is no excuse
In a related context, Haaland commented on his coach Pep Guardiola's remarks regarding the fatigue resulting from competing on four fronts, saying: "I don't like to talk about a drop in performance or make excuses. Fatigue is often more mental than physical. My priority is to stay fit and help the team." This statement reflects the great maturity the player has reached, understanding that consistency is the key to success in the strongest league in the world.
City and the challenge of multiple fronts
This resurgence comes at a crucial juncture in the season, as Manchester City faces a grueling and unforgiving schedule. The team is preparing for the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal next month, in addition to their Champions League Round of 16 fixtures and an FA Cup tie against Salford City. Historically, Manchester City under Guardiola have been renowned for their remarkable ability to cope with fixture congestion in the second half of the season, a quality the Sky Blues faithful are hoping will enable them to repeat their comebacks and snatch trophies in the final stretch.
Coronation scenarios and ongoing conflict
The recent victory has firmly put City back in the title race, giving them a golden opportunity to close the gap to just three points with a win against Fulham, especially given Arsenal's upcoming tough fixtures. Haaland concluded with a warning to their rivals: "Our past experience shows that the league title race isn't decided until the final rounds. My complete focus is on the next match; the season is still long.".
