When Roy Keane criticized Erling Haaland as being “almost League Two level” following Manchester City’s goalless draw with Arsenal, it came at a time when the forward was enduring a dry spell, having not scored in five matches, and City had just experienced their first Premier League match without a goal at the Etihad Stadium since October 2021.
At that juncture, the Premier League title seemed to be slipping away from City’s grasp, with then-leaders Liverpool holding a two-point advantage over Arsenal and a three-point lead over City.
However, since that disappointing fixture on March 31st, Pep Guardiola’s squad has embarked on a remarkable resurgence, securing victory in six consecutive league matches. They currently trail Arsenal by just one point in the standings, with a game in hand.
Central to City’s revival has been the dazzling form of Erling Haaland, who, at the age of 23, has emerged as a talismanic figure, netting seven goals in four league outings, including a memorable four-goal haul against Wolves in a resounding 5-1 triumph.
Notably, Haaland has exhibited not only excellence on the field but also a composed demeanor off it. When questioned about Keane’s remarks after City’s win over Wolves, he nonchalantly responded, “I don’t really care that much about that man, so that’s all right.” Keane’s comments were likely colored by his history with the Haaland family, notably his infamous tackle on Erling’s father, Alf-Inge, during a Manchester derby in 2001.
