Derby matches are don’t just come and go without heating up the whole English atmosphere. The intense rivalry that surges from the build-up, to the match controversies, and even the post-match analysis, is not something you see everyday.
With the most revered of all derbies(Manchester derby) just in view, Europe’s most lethal weapon in front of goal, Erling Haaland has dropped a few thoughts, feelings and anticipation about his first derby match.
Erling Haaland: “I’m looking forward to my first Manchester derby. It’ll be fun. I’m looking forward to them visiting us at our stadium. I’m hoping everyone at Man City is ready for the game, and attacks it at the same time. I’m looking forward to it.”
*Erling Haaland on the Manchester derby, and the battle with Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez*: “I haven’t really thought too much about it. I’m hoping we can play our best football. If so, I think it could be a lovely evening.”
*Erling Haaland on Manchester derby memories*: “I remember [Mario] Balotelli at Old Trafford, with the ‘Why Always Me?’ celebration. I remember that one particularly well, I gotta say that. I’ve got some memories. I do. I’m looking forward to making new ones.”
Erling Haaland: “No, there is no defender I don’t want to face. It doesn’t matter.”
*Erling Haaland on choosing to go for crosses with his feet, and not head*: “Because I can, I have long legs, I can jump high. So if I can take it with my legs, why not?”
*Erling Haaland on the Manchester derby*: “I know how it’s like, and I’m ready.”
*Erling Haaland on his plans for the World Cup*: “I will probably sit on a beach somewhere, relaxing.”