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Man City manager Pep Guardiola is in awe of his star striker Erling Haaland after his latest Premier League hat-trick.
In a dominant display at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City, spearheaded by the prolific Erling Haaland, secured a convincing 4-1 win against Ipswich Town, propelling them to the top of the Premier League table.
The match began with an unexpected twist as Ipswich Town broke the deadlock with a penalty in the 7th minute, briefly stunning the home crowd.
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14:17 - 25.08.2024
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However, City's response was swift and decisive. Haaland equalised from the penalty spot in the 12th minute, followed by Kevin De Bruyne's goal just two minutes later.
Haaland then struck again in the 16th minute, completing a whirlwind four-minute spell that saw City take a commanding 3-1 lead at the break.
The second half was a masterclass in possession football from Pep Guardiola's side. As the clock ticked into added time, Haaland put the finishing touches on a memorable performance with a fine strike to complete his hat-trick - his 10th in the Premier League.
READ ALSO: He is on the same level — Guardiola compares Haaland to Messi and Ronaldo
Post-match, City manager Pep Guardiola was effusive in his praise for Haaland, who teased FPL managers after the game, particularly highlighting the Norwegian striker's work rate off the ball.
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"I like it when Erling Haaland runs a lot! I like it when he presses like an animal!" Guardiola exclaimed according to a City fanzine on Facebook.
The Spanish tactician emphasised the importance of Haaland's defensive contributions, stating that they directly impact the team's offensive potency.
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Guardiola also touched on the psychological impact of Haaland's presence on opposing defenders.
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"Imagine as a central defender on the ball with him sprinting towards you with his body and his legs moving - it's scary!" he said, underlining the striker's intimidating physical presence.
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The City manager made it clear that Haaland's off-ball work is non-negotiable, regardless of his goal-scoring exploits.
"If he doesn't score a goal it's fine, he has to do it," Guardiola insisted, indicating that the team is working with Haaland to improve his ball control during link-up play.
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This comprehensive victory sees Manchester City climb to the Premier League summit, with Haaland's hat-trick serving as a reminder of their attacking prowess.
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For newly promoted Ipswich Town, managed by Kieran McKenna, the defeat continued their baptism of fire in the Premier League which highlights the challenges they will face in the top flight, despite their spirited start to the match.
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