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Erling Haaland has revealed his true feelings on Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk as the Reds face Manchester City at the Etihad on Sunday
As if any extra motivation were needed, both sides have it after Arsenal dropped points at Sunderland on Saturday. A City win would move Pep Guardiola's team within four points of the Gunners, while a Liverpool victory would close the gap to five.
Liverpool’s recent wins over Aston Villa and Real Madrid have restored confidence after a poor run of six defeats in seven. Van Dijk, who was recently criticized by Wayne Rooney, has silenced his doubters with strong performances and leadership, guiding the Reds to back-to-back wins as they aim for a third straight win.
In an interview with Stan Sport Football, Haaland was asked what it’s like to face Liverpool’s center-back. “No, of course, it’s fun. I play football, I do what I love, and of course it’s fun," said the Norwegian. “He’s an amazing player, Liverpool is an amazing team. So as I said, we need to be ready.”
Haaland praised Liverpool, admitting the team “doesn’t have many weaknesses” and remains a strong contender for the Premier League title.
While Jurgen Klopp never won a league game at the Etihad, Arne Slot claimed victory there on his last visit.
However, with several summer changes, Slot’s squad is still settling. Haaland referenced this transition when discussing Liverpool’s title hopes, noting its significant activity in the transfer market as a key factor in its ongoing development.
“I think they are a really solid team,” the former Borussia Dortmund man told City’s club website. “They are Premier League champions, so they are a fantastic team and they have got so many good players.
He added: "I don’t think they have many weaknesses. They’ve had their struggles here and there. They are such a good and complete side and that makes them one of the favourites to win the Premier League again.
“They are the champions, they are playing with the gold badge on their sleeve, so it’s going to be a difficult game. They spent a lot of money in the summer so what can you say? I don’t think they have many weaknesses.”
Pundits expect Liverpool to avoid defeat against Manchester City on Sunday, though containing Haaland will be a major challenge.
The Norwegian striker has already netted 13 Premier League goals this season — more than double the tally of the four players tied in second place.
Against Liverpool, Haaland has scored three times in eight appearances but has yet to register an assist.
His most recent goal versus the current champions came in a 1-1 draw at the Etihad on November 25, 2023.
English (US) ·