Erling Haaland proved decisive on Sunday, scoring twice as Manchester City overcame a stubborn Bournemouth side with a commanding 3-1 victory at the Etihad Stadium, allowing the Citizens to climb into second place in the Premier League table.
The Norwegian striker was returning to the starting lineup after manager Pep Guardiola had ruled him out of the recent Carabao Cup victory against Swansea due to a knock sustained in the previous match against Aston Villa.
Haaland quickly dispelled any fitness concerns, netting his 97th and 98th career Premier League goals against the Cherries, both assisted by Rayan Cherki, to cement the three points.
City’s goals ensured they swept aside a Bournemouth team that has shown strong form this season. The victory underscores City’s renewed title aspirations, particularly with Haaland back in full flow and influential midfielder Rodri also returning to the squad following a hamstring injury.
Guardiola had previously addressed the striker’s injury, saying tersely when initially asked about his readiness: “I don’t know yet. I hope so.” However, the manager had also recently gushed about the forward’s mentality:
“With Erling, he knows perfectly how to be patient, how to be in small spaces, how to be consistent, to go to the ones in behind.”
This patience and consistency were on display as Haaland found the net, ensuring City continue their aggressive push at the top of the table heading into the hectic winter schedule.
Nico O’Reilly added a third to seal a 3-1 win, making Tyler Adams’ first-half equalizer go down as a mere consolation as the host displace the visitors and move to second on the league standings.