Gary Neville has suggested a Manchester City star "doesn't get involved enough" and "could do so much more" after the Sky Sports pundit's former club suffered a 3-0 defeat in the Manchester derby.
Man City back on track after derby triumph
Man City endured a difficult start to the Premier League season, losing two of their opening three games, but Pep Guardiola will be hoping the 3-0 victory over bitter rivals Manchester United can be an early turning point.
Phil Foden opened the scoring for the hosts just before the 20-minute mark, with a second-half Erling Haaland brace wrapping up all three points for Guardiola's side, who always looked in control of the game.
Guardiola waxed lyrical about the Norwegian striker after the match, saying: "Erling has been incredible since the start but this season he is better than ever. I would say better than the Treble year. He’s dynamic and I don’t judge him for the clearance, we want him to score goals and to help us."
While Neville was also left impressed by Haaland's performance, the Manchester United legend queried why the striker is unable to put in similar displays on a more regular basis, saying on his podcast: "Obviously he sometimes doesn't get involved in the game enough.
Gigi Donnarumma and Erling Haaland
"He scores so many goals, but then I always think, you could do so much more, you could hold it up, you could rag-doll defenders, you could chase things down, you could defend it in your own box, you could win headers, you could do everything, because you're that good - you're that good a player, and today was that performance."
Haaland has made flying start to the campaign
The 25-year-old has been called out on his general play in the past, with former Man United man Roy Keane comparing the centre-forward to a League Two player after the Blues' 0-0 draw against Arsenal in the 2023-24 season.
However, one thing that cannot be questioned is the Man City star's goal-scoring ability, having won the Premier League Golden Boot award in his first two campaigns at the Etihad Stadium, while also maintaining a fantastic record in front of goal last season.
Season Premier League appearances Goals
2022-23 35 36
2023-24 31 27
2024-25 31 22
As pointed out by Neville, the Norway international also showed signs that his all-round game has improved against United too, making six clearances, creating one big chance and completing two dribbles throughout the match.
Although Man City have endured a difficult start to the season, having Haaland at their disposal should mean they always have a chance of competing for major honours, and Guardiola will be hoping the centre-forward can continue his fantastic form.