Haaland Is On Messi & Ronaldo Level

It is no secret Erling Haaland scores lots of goals – but his stunning bicycle kick in Manchester City’s victory over Southampton will undoubtedly rank among his best.

There was uncertainty over whether the prolific 22-year-old would start on Saturday after a groin injury, but he announced his return in style by connecting with Jack Grealish’s cross in acrobatic fashion.

That was his second goal of the game as title-chasing City recorded a 4-1 win at St Mary’s to extend their winning run to eight matches in all competitions and maintain pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal.

“We have lived two incredible decades with Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, but he is on that level,” manager Pep Guardiola told BBC Sport.

“The second goal was amazing. It is not easy to pick the ball up in the sky and put it on the grass.”

Guardiola added:

“I think our bosses bought him for this type of game. We are uncomfortable and not playing at our best level but he gets the goal.

“The second, you can’t imagine at his height he has this ability. Exceptional goal.”