Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Erling Haaland has urged Manchester City to give Enzo Maresca time as the new manager’s ideas begin to take shape following a 4-1 win over Crystal Palace. The victory gave City maximum points from their opening two Premier League games and offered further encouragement after their difficult start.
City had lost to Arsenal in the Community Shield before responding with consecutive league wins, with Rayan Cherki and Haaland both scoring twice at Selhurst Park. Speaking after the match, Haaland stressed that City are still learning how to get the best out of a revamped squad under their new manager.
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“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.”
The Norwegian’s comments underline the adjustment still required at City, with Maresca attempting to establish his methods while integrating players arriving from different stages of their seasons.
HAALAND: CITY NEED TIME TO GEL
Haaland pointed to Cherki’s unusual pre-season situation, with the Frenchman having played at the World Cup only weeks before joining up with City, as an example of why the squad needs time.
“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,” he said.
The striker also highlighted Elliot Anderson’s performance and called for City to continue building their understanding rather than expecting immediate perfection.
“It’s a right step in the right direction from everyone. Elliot was incredible. We have to build on this,” Haaland added.
He also made clear that the players remain committed to Maresca’s approach.
“We know what to do and need to trust the system and trust Enzo in what he wants us to do.”
MARESCA’S CITY BEGIN TO FIND THEIR RHYTHM
City were made to work for their win after Palace started brightly, but Haaland’s 17th-minute header gave the visitors the lead. An unfortunate Gianluigi Donnarumma own goal briefly brought Palace level before Cherki struck twice in five minutes to swing the game firmly City’s way.
Haaland completed the scoring in the 85th minute, continuing his strong start while giving Maresca another glimpse of the attacking depth at his disposal.
Maresca admitted the opening spell had been difficult but was pleased with how City eventually took control.
“After 10 minutes we controlled the game on the ball and off the ball and deserved to win,” he said.
City next face Coventry City at the Etihad on September 5 before travelling to Old Trafford for the first Manchester derby of the season against Manchester United on September 13. Their early-season schedule will then include a Carabao Cup meeting with Norwich City and the start of their Champions League campaign.
– Ends
SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
