Haaland’s Pursuit of Glory Against Liverpool and for Norway

Erling Haaland experienced frustration during his home fixture against Liverpool while playing for Salzburg, where he was substituted in a 2-0 loss. His first encounter with the Merseysiders in a Manchester City jersey occurred during the 2022 Community Shield, where he was unexpectedly overshadowed by Darwin Nunez in a 3-1 defeat.

In that match, the striker had only 14 touches and squandered a straightforward chance, hitting the crossbar from close range. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola remained optimistic, stating, “He didn’t score. Another day he will score. He has an incredible quality on that and he will do it. He is going to help us a lot.”

Guardiola’s confidence proved accurate, as Haaland netted twice in his next outing against West Ham, marking the beginning of his record-setting journey to 36 goals in a Premier League season. However, his performance against Liverpool has yet to yield favorable results; he failed to score in their next league encounter, enduring a tense 1-0 defeat at Anfield in October 2022. He did find the net during a Carabao Cup clash at the Etihad two months later, but missed the following match due to injury. City, however, thrived without him, achieving a resounding 4-1 victory en route to the Premier League title.

Haaland managed to score in a 1-1 draw against Liverpool in November 2023 but remains without a goal in subsequent encounters, producing goalless performances in a recent 1-1 draw and a 2-0 loss at Anfield. His absence in last season’s 0-2 defeat at the Etihad due to injury further extends his wait for a Premier League victory over Liverpool.

Following a tumultuous stretch for Liverpool between late September and October, where they suffered six defeats in seven matches and conceded 14 goals, Haaland may have felt hopeful for a shift in momentum. Nevertheless, Liverpool’s recent form against Aston Villa and Real Madrid suggests a return to their championship-winning caliber, posing a significant challenge for City.

Haaland emphasized the need for a cohesive team performance against Liverpool, acknowledging the historical rivalry between the two clubs. “We need to perform as a team and need to be all together, attacking Liverpool and defending as a team. It’s going to be a difficult game, and we need to be at our best,” he stated.

Currently, Haaland is in exceptional form, having scored 18 goals in 14 matches across the Premier League and Champions League, in addition to nine goals in three matches for Norway. This totals 27 goals in 17 games for both club and country, positioning him to surpass his astonishing tally of 57 goals in the 2022-23 season. He remarked on his current form, saying, “It’s been a good start, and I feel really good. I feel this is the best version of myself. I’ve never felt better than now.”

Last month, he shared insights into his rigorous recovery routine, which includes red-light therapy, massages, ice baths, saunas, and a diet rich in fresh fish, steaks, and raw milk. After scoring against his former club Borussia Dortmund, he reiterated the importance of his routine, stating: “To keep sharp, I need to keep my mind in the right place, recover well, and eat the right things. It’s about maintaining energy levels, being motivated, and doing what’s best for my body and mind.”

When asked about the prospect of breaking records, he responded with humility, saying, “Not to sound arrogant, but which record?” referring to Alan Shearer’s all-time Premier League goal tally. He stressed the importance of focusing on team victories rather than personal accolades.

Looking ahead, Haaland is also focused on helping Norway secure World Cup qualification, with crucial matches against Estonia and Italy on the horizon. He has been instrumental in Norway’s successful campaign, scoring 12 goals and leading his team to a perfect record in six matches. A victory over Estonia could secure their first World Cup berth since 1998.

Haaland anticipates a celebratory atmosphere if Norway qualifies, stating it would be as significant as any trophies he has won with City. “This is the main goal in my career, and now I have a good chance to do it, so it’s about taking the chances,” he declared.

With both national and club ambitions at stake, Haaland’s upcoming week appears pivotal for his career. However, he aims to remain grounded, avoiding external pressures. “I try not to think about what people expect. I try to be free in my mind and not think too much. For me, it’s important to stay in my zone.”

Currently, the zone Haaland occupies presents a formidable challenge for any opponent. Liverpool, the team that has managed to contain him thus far, is preparing to face this relentless competitor.