Haaland Rediscovers His Edge: No More Excuses, I Need to Score More
9 February 2026
Haaland's Self-Assessment
Erling Haaland, Manchester City's striker, says he must improve after scoring only two penalties in his last eight Premier League games.
The 25-year-old sealed a 2-1 win over Liverpool at Anfield with a stoppage-time penalty, after setting up Bernardo Silva's 84th minute equaliser.
Despite that win, his drought of open play goals in the league continues since the December 20 2-0 win over West Ham; Haaland, who tops the Golden Boot with 21 goals, says he must do better.
In remarks highlighted by ESPN, Haaland said you could say I haven't scored enough since the start of this year, and I know I need to improve; I must be sharper and better in all areas, and this is something I must work on.
He added that he must keep going because that's what everyone deserves; no excuses, mental fatigue is often the mind.
With many matches ahead and a tough schedule, staying fit and avoiding injuries is the most important thing, and he must always be ready to help the team.
City's win at Anfield completed back-to-back league wins over Liverpool for the first time since 1936-37, and Guardiola's side closed the gap on leaders Arsenal to six points.
Arsenal visit the Etihad on April 18 in a clash that could decide the title; Haaland believes City can still overhaul Arsenal, and a win over Fulham on Wednesday would reduce the gap to three.
Haaland ended by noting that title races don't end until the final whistle; now he must shower, return to the bus, recuperate and eat well, focusing on Fulham with many games left.
Looking ahead, Manchester City face a busy run of fixtures as they chase the title, and Haaland says the squad must stay focused and physically ready.
Liverpool victory marks a rare double this season and shows City can beat big rivals when Haaland is involved; the real test remains Arsenal.
Punchline 1: If effort counted as goals, Haaland would be the top scorer in every league.
Punchline 2: Maybe City should install a dessert cart to keep him energized on the road to Fulham.
