Erling Haaland wins Man City award but misfires in Norway’s goalless draw

Erling Haaland has been named Manchester City’s Etihad Player of the Month for August following a blistering start to the 2024/25 season, Soccernet.football reports.

The Norwegian striker netted an impressive seven goals in just three matches, including two back-to-back hat-tricks against Ipswich Town and West Ham United.

Haaland also kicked off his Premier League campaign with a goal on the opening day, helping City secure a 2-0 victory over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Haaland, who claimed nearly 75% of the public vote, beat teammates Rico Lewis and Mateo Kovacic to clinch the award. His incredible form in front of goal has seen him emerge as an early favourite for the Premier League Golden Boot this season.

However, while Haaland has been unstoppable at the club level, his international form paints a different picture.

In Norway’s UEFA Nations League clash with Kazakhstan, the 23-year-old fired blanks, failing to convert any of his four shots in a frustrating 0-0 draw.

Despite heading into the international break fresh off two Premier League hat-tricks, Haaland struggled to find the net against Kazakhstan, who are ranked 109th in the world.

Norway dominated possession, but Haaland missed key chances, including a 24th-minute header over the bar and a close-range effort that went wide.

He was presented with his best opportunity just after the break but couldn’t capitalise, leaving Norway without a win in three competitive matches.