Erling Haaland has admitted that Manchester City's controversial second goal against Fulham should not have stood, acknowledging the visitors' right to feel aggrieved. The Norwegian striker scored a hat-trick as City won 5-1 at the Etihad Stadium, but the game turned on a contentious incident just before half-time.
Nathan Ake headed City 2-1 ahead, but Fulham protested that Manuel Akanji, in an offside position, had attempted to kick the ball and hindered goalkeeper Bernd Leno. Despite VAR review, the goal was allowed to stand, a decision Haaland now believes was incorrect.
“I think it was offside as well,” Haaland told beIN Sports. “I feel bad for them, I would be fuming after this as well. It must be a horrible feeling for them.”
City dominated after the break, with Haaland scoring from an Alvarez pass, a penalty, and a Sergio Gomez cross to claim his seventh hat-trick for the club. “I'm back,” said Haaland. “I am always hungry. It's a new season and I am ready.”
The victory was City's second without manager Pep Guardiola, who is recovering from back surgery. Haaland added: “I think he misses us. We also miss him sometimes too, so we look forward to having him back.”
Fulham, still without a win since the opening day, will look to bounce back after the international break. Defender Tim Ream said: “It's just a shame that we have an international break... But we'll come back and go again.”
