AFP – Erling Haaland scored four as Manchester City closed to within three games of an unprecedented fourth consecutive Premier League title by thrashing Wolves 5-1 at the Etihad.
Arsenal’s 3-0 win over Bournemouth on Saturday had opened up a four-point lead for the Gunners.
But City showed no signs of feeling the pressure as they cut the gap back to one point and have three matches remaining to Arsenal’s two.
Haaland has faced criticism for not matching the standards of his stunning first season in Manchester, when he scored 52 goals as City won the treble.
However, the Norwegian took his tally for this season to 36 goals in 41 appearances with a devastating display of finishing.
“Erling is back to business,” said City boss Pep Guardiola.
“Penalties are a guarantee but the second and fourth (goals) were unbelievable.”
Haaland was restored to Pep Guardiola’s starting line-up after coming off the bench to score against Nottingham Forest last weekend on his return from injury.
However, Guardiola pointed to an earlier injury problem this season that kept him out for two months as the reason behind Haaland failing to hit the same heights as last year.
“He was injured, an important one, and he’s so tall to get back to your best form you need time,” added Guardiola.
Even if City collectively are also not at the same level as a year ago, they remain well on course for a Premier League and FA Cup double.
And Guardiola insisted they will need to win all three matches, despite Arsenal facing a tricky trip away to Manchester United next weekend.
“One week, three games. Nine points we will be champions, six or seven points, Arsenal will be champions.”
