The performance of Erling Haaland has improved from earlier seasons– Manuel A. Kanji

Manchester City defeated Brentford 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium in a fantastic football game to continue their unbeaten start to the Premier League. Erling Haaland was instrumental in this victory with his brace, which not only sealed the points but also demonstrated his remarkable development as a player.

Haaland has scored an incredible 99 goals in 103 appearances for City, having already scored nine goals in just four league games—including two hat-tricks. But this season, more than simply the raw figures have drawn attention. The Norwegian's teammate Manuel Akanji, who was with Haaland at Borussia Dortmund before, thinks that Haaland's overall performance has improved dramatically. He is playing the game more this season. For the squad, he's holding up the ball pretty well," Akanji said. This capacity to contribute in ways other than just scoring goals demonstrates Haaland's growth as a more all-around forward.

In just 22 seconds, City was behind as Yoane Wissa capitalized on a defensive error. Rather than grudgingly concede to pressure, the team responded, and it was Haaland who seemed to spring the team into life with his two goals-turned-tide swingers, allowing City to display tenacity and willpower against a seemingly overwhelming opponent.

The city performed after a very intimate week. The striker had to face the emotional loss due to Ivar Eggja's death; he was his close friend and very important both in his life and profession. Haaland decided to go onto the pitch as a gesture honouring his lost friend, a decision that reflected his commitment to the team. Not even his manager, Pep Guardiola, who granted him leave on compassionate grounds, would have stopped Haaland from playing, rather indicating it was a measure of commitment on the one hand and the support structure in the team. Akanji went on to say, "It's not just about the teammates; it's the whole club," highlighting the importance of brotherhood in difficult times.

😮‍💨 City goal number 9️⃣9️⃣ for @ErlingHaaland! pic.twitter.com/EpvqcJJ4HV

— Manchester City (@ManCity) September 14, 2024

There was an obvious emotional mood, as Guardiola noted how the team pulled together to support Haaland during the week. The group embodied the oneness that is City by sending flowers to his father's box at the stadium. Players constantly support one another on the pitch, demonstrating this closeness, which may prove to be important as the season goes on.

Conversely, Brentford demonstrated their strength as opponents. Even though they lost, their performance showed promise, as defender Nathan Collins put it when he said, "This has to be the standard for the rest of the season." The Bees' early problems with City and the multiple opportunities created are evidence of their rising league status.

Haaland's ability to score goals and his improved all-around play will be crucial to City as the season progresses. There's no knowing what heights this team can achieve if he keeps playing at this calibre. For the time being, the emphasis is still on keeping up the momentum, helping one another on and off the pitch, and rising to the difficulties that lie ahead. The players' unquestionable talent and emotional commitment to the team provide a bright future, one that Haaland is determined to steer.