Erling Haaland admitted Manchester City were nervous ahead of last night’s crunch clash at Tottenham and has called on his team-mates to relax when they face West Ham on Sunday.
Haaland’s double handed City a 2-0 win in North London and ensured they go into the final day two points clear of Arsenal at the top of the table and in the driving seat to become the first team to win the English top flight in four successive seasons.
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It wasn’t a vintage performance from Pep Guardiola’s men who were uncharacteristically sloppy in the first half before being bailed out by some fine saves from substitute goalkeeper Stefan Ortega after the break.
Haaland told City+: “They [Tottenham] are a fantastic team. You know everyone knows that they want to play all the time and all praise to them.
“It was really difficult, but yeah, we came here to try and win and we won. That’s my only thing and I’m happy.
“I think we were a bit nervous. I think that’s normal, there’s a lot of emotions for everyone.
“Everyone knows the situation, but it’s about not thinking too much. Try to focus on your things to do and try to win.”
Stefan Ortega Moreno. Phenomenal. pic.twitter.com/0QOPtAsRR7
— Manchester City (@ManCity) May 14, 2024
The Norway striker is hoping nerves will be a little calmer when they host the Hammers in David Moyes’ final game in charge at the weekend.
“Focus on game by game and now relax,” he added.
“We came here to try to win and we won.
“Focus on the next game and try not to think too much. Let’s get all together and finish this.”
Ortega emerged as the surprise hero with a man of the match display after replacing the injured Ederson.
Haaland said: “Ortega man of the match… What can I say? He’s incredible and such a good guy as well, so I’m happy for him.”
