MEN
Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira admitted that there is ‘no surprise’ about the quality of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland after he scored a hat-trick against the Eagles.
Pep Guardiola’s side came from two goals down to win 4-2 at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, with Bernardo grabbing City’s first goal before Haaland scored three times in the second period.
The striker, who arrived from Bundesliga club Borussia Dortmund this summer, has scored six goals and registered one assist in his first four Premier League matches.
Speaking after the match, Palace boss Vieira – who made 46 appearances for City and won the FA Cup during his time with the club – claimed that he was not surprised by Haaland’s impressive performance and praised Guardiola’s side for ‘allowing him to shine’.
“I think there is no surprise about the quality of the player, I think it’s the quality of this Manchester City team that always allows those players to shine and score those goals,” he said.
“I think collectively, they [Man City] went to a different level in the second half that we couldn’t cope with, and that’s the reality of the game.”
Guardiola also commended Haaland for his ability to remain focussed during a quiet first half, saying his reliability in front of goal means City will always have a chance in games even if they fall behind.
“What I like of Erling is we are still knowing each other. Still need more time. I saw his body language at 0-2 down how he encouraged his mates. I had the feeling maybe he was not involved in the game but always he was there,” the Spaniard said…
