Erling Haaland scored twice as Manchester City swept aside West Ham 3-0 at the Etihad Stadium, keeping the pressure on Premier League leaders Arsenal. The victory was City's seventh consecutive win over the Hammers in all competitions, with Pep Guardiola's side now on a six-match winning streak.
Haaland opened the scoring after just five minutes, latching onto a Phil Foden pass and firing home after his initial effort was saved. The Norwegian added his second in the 70th minute, capitalising on a defensive mix-up to rifle the ball into the net. Tijjani Reijnders had doubled City's lead in the first half, finishing off a slick move involving Rayan Cherki and Haaland.
Despite the comfortable win, Guardiola offered a mixed verdict on his team's performance. 'I'm happy, but the way we played with the ball, we have to improve,' he said. 'Otherwise, it will not be enough to contend for titles in March and April.' The City boss also singled out Bernardo Silva for rare criticism, stating: 'Today Bernie had to play better. I'm not happy with him.'
West Ham, who have now lost seven consecutive matches to City, remain in the relegation zone after a dispiriting display. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo admitted his concern, saying: 'Of course, I'm concerned. We have to insist and believe.' The Hammers managed few clear-cut chances, with Crysencio Summerville forcing a save from Gianluigi Donnarumma in the second half.
The result means City stay second in the table, three points behind Arsenal, who beat Everton earlier on Saturday. Guardiola's side have now kept three consecutive clean sheets in the league, a defensive solidity that will be crucial as they chase a fourth successive title.
