Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca remains confident in Erling Haaland’s goal-scoring capabilities, emphasizing the importance of the team creating opportunities for the prolific striker.
This endorsement came after Haaland netted twice in Manchester City’s dominant 4-1 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Friday.
Haaland initiated the scoring with a header from an Antoine Semenyo cross in the 17th minute and later added a second with a left-foot finish. Rayan Cherki also contributed with two goals, marking City’s second consecutive Premier League win under Maresca’s leadership.
Despite Haaland not finding the net in City’s season-opening win over Bournemouth, Maresca never lost faith in the striker’s ability to score.
“We just need to create chances for him,” Maresca explained. “If we succeed in doing that, we know he’ll deliver goals as he always has.”
Maresca highlighted Haaland’s opportunities in the first match, noting his missed chances. However, against Palace, Haaland was more effective and showed potential for even more goals.
“He had a few opportunities against Bournemouth but was unlucky. Tonight he scored twice and could have added a few more,” said Maresca.
This victory was a positive outcome for Maresca as he continues to shape his Manchester City squad following his appointment as manager.
City now boasts six points from their first two league games, with significant contributions from both Haaland and Cherki.
Maresca also commended his team’s overall intensity and discipline, highlighting their impressive performance both in possession and defensively.
“I think the overall performance was strong,” he noted, adding that City’s blend of skill, determination, and intensity could drive success this season.
For Haaland, scoring twice served as a timely reminder of his attacking prowess, offering a robust response following a subdued opening-day display. With City creating chances under Maresca’s guidance, the manager expects Haaland to maintain his scoring momentum throughout the campaign.
