Erling Haaland has opened up about how the 2022 FIFA World Cup "triggered" him following his record-breaking performance against Leeds United on Wednesday night.
The Norwegian found the back of the net twice at Elland Road to help the Citizens climb back to second place ahead of Newcastle United, and five points behind leaders Arsenal.
Haaland's brace against Leeds ensured that he is now the fastest player to score 20 Premier League goals, reaching the feat in just 14 games.
The 22-year-old already has 26 goals in all competitions and is showing no signs of slowing down.
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In a post-match interview after the victory, Haaland has explained why there is a fire in his belly now that club football is back following the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
"I just said inside the dressing room that I could have scored five but the most important thing is that we won," the striker said, per the Daily Metro.
"I could have scored a couple more but that's life and I have to train more.
"I've been at home, a bit mad that I've not been at the World Cup.
"I recharged my batteries.
"Watching other people score to win games at the World Cup triggered, motivated and irritated me.
"I'm more hungry than ever."
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Despite Haaland's latest goalscoring heroics, however, his manager Pep Guardiola believes the striker is still not back to his best.
"He's an incredible threat for us and always in the right position the right time, really good," the Spaniard said, per Sky Sports.
"I think he is still not at his best because of the injury, to move his huge body is not easy for him, but as much as he can play minutes, (he) will be better.
"I have the feeling he is not at his best. It is a matter of time. Always an incredible threat for the opponent.
"Of course we are delighted, but that little (bit of extra) pace he had at the beginning of the season, he struggles a little bit.
"I am still more than satisfied, but the first part of the season he was sharper.
"He is getting better, incredible professional. He takes care of his body and mind."
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