Erling Haaland looks ahead to ‘special’ Liverpool clash

Erling Haaland looks ahead to ‘special’ Liverpool clash Erling Haaland sends Anfield message ahead of Liverpool clash Manchester City striker Erling Haaland has sent a measured message ahead of Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Liverpool at Anfield, acknowledging the significance of a fixture that has developed its own intensity over recent seasons. For Haaland, there is no shortage of experience when it comes to facing Liverpool on their own ground. The Norway international has experienced victory, defeat and a draw at Anfield, giving him a useful sense of what awaits Manchester City this weekend. Haaland knows what awaits at Anfield “It’s always special to play against Liverpool,” he told City’s website . “I won there [at Anfield] , drew there and lost. “It’s always special – every Premier League game is different and every Premier League game against Liverpool is special.” There is little need for Haaland to manufacture drama around the occasion. Liverpool have traditionally made Anfield an uncomfortable venue for City, while the forward remains one of the Premier League’s biggest individual threats. Haaland has also called for unity within the Manchester City camp, urging supporters, players and staff to remain together and positive as the club deals with a difficult period away from the pitch. Photo: IMAGO Manchester City arrive as Premier League leaders The timing of the Liverpool clash gives it another layer of intrigue. Manchester City arrive at Anfield top of the Premier League after taking a perfect 15 points from their opening five matches. Haaland has played a significant role in that start, leading the Premier League scoring charts with five goals in five appearances. His latest international break was equally productive, with three goals in four matches for Norway. There was some concern when Haaland limped off after 67 minutes of Norway’s 2-1 defeat by Portugal on Sunday. Norway head coach Stale Solbakken subsequently attributed the problem to tiredness rather than an injury, leaving City hopeful their leading scorer will be ready for Liverpool. Liverpool face City under Andoni Iraola Liverpool’s own story has changed considerably following the arrival of Andoni Iraola. The new head coach remains unbeaten in the Premier League, with Liverpool sitting sixth on nine points after two wins and three draws. The early defensive numbers provide encouragement, too. Liverpool have conceded only four goals, giving them the third best defensive record in the division, while seven goals have been scored at the other end. Alexander Isak has already made his presence felt. Liverpool’s striker scored twice in the 2-0 victory at Ipswich before finding the net again in the 1-0 win at Bournemouth. His four league goals put him second behind Haaland in the scoring standings. That sets up an intriguing individual contest at Anfield, with Haaland and Isak arriving in form and both carrying considerable responsibility for their teams. For Manchester City, the objective is straightforward, protect their perfect league record and maintain top spot. For Liverpool, Iraola’s side have an opportunity to make an early statement against the reigning leaders. Haaland knows exactly what Anfield can produce. His message suggests City will arrive prepared for the occasion.