Erling Haaland has called for patience and trust in Enzo Maresca as Manchester City continue to adapt to their new manager’s ideas after a convincing 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace.
The result secured maximum points from City’s opening two Premier League matches and provided another positive response following their difficult start to the season.
City had suffered defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield but quickly bounced back with successive league victories. At Selhurst Park, Rayan Cherki and Haaland both scored twice to seal an emphatic win.
Speaking after the match, Haaland acknowledged that City are still working to find the right balance within a revamped squad and understand how to get the best from their new system.
“We have to keep on playing together and find out where we are best and how to play,” Haaland said.
“We have so many good players and we have to fit everyone in. We have to keep going.”
HAALAND CALLS FOR PATIENCE AS CITY ADAPT
Haaland highlighted the challenges facing the squad during the early stages of the season, particularly as several players have had limited time to prepare together.
The striker used Cherki’s unusual pre-season schedule as an example. The Frenchman had represented his country at the World Cup just weeks before linking up with City.
“I think in the start of the season, it was barely pre-season for everyone. Rayan just five weeks ago was playing in the World Cup, so it’s a step up and we take it game by game,” Haaland said.
The Norway international also praised Elliot Anderson for his display and insisted that City must continue developing their understanding on the pitch.
“It’s a right step in the right direction from everyone. Elliot was incredible. We have to build on this,” Haaland added.
He also backed Maresca’s methods and urged his teammates to remain committed to the manager’s plans.
“We know what to do and need to trust the system and trust Enzo in what he wants us to do.”
CITY SHOW SIGNS OF MAURESCa’S INFLUENCE
Palace made a lively start and put City under pressure during the opening stages, but Haaland broke the deadlock with a 17th-minute header.
The hosts then levelled when an unfortunate Gianluigi Donnarumma own goal brought them back into the contest. City responded strongly, with Cherki scoring twice within five minutes to restore their advantage and put the visitors firmly in control.
Haaland added his second in the 85th minute to complete the scoring and underline his excellent start to the campaign.
Maresca admitted that City had struggled during the opening 10 minutes but was pleased with the response that followed.
“After 10 minutes we controlled the game on the ball and off the ball and deserved to win,” he said.
City will now turn their attention to Coventry City, whom they face at the Etihad on September 5. They will then travel to Old Trafford on September 13 for the first Manchester derby of the season against Manchester United.
A Carabao Cup clash with Norwich City and the start of their Champions League campaign will follow as City look to continue building momentum under Maresca.
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