Erling Haaland risks Pep Guardiola's wrath with honest confession after Chelsea win

Erling Haaland risked Pep Guardiola's wrath with his post-match comments following Manchester City's win over Chelsea. The 24-year-old opened his season tally with a smart finish inside the first 20 minutes at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea were made to pay for a sluggish start to the game when Haaland opened the scoring from close range on his 100th appearance for City. He weaved his way between two opposition defenders before lifting the ball over Blues goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and into the back of the net.

Mateo Kovacic then put the game to bed by scoring a second late goal against his former club, helping City get off to a flying start in their Premier League title defence.

Haaland, often criticised for his lack of contribution outside of his goals, managed just three passes in 90 minutes against Chelsea. Speaking after the final whistle, he admitted he was looking to improve his game overall but questioned whether he really needed to.

He told Sky Sports: “When you see all the defenders today and how well they play with the midfielders. Pep won't like me saying this, but they don't need me in this team so I can just stand there and watch!”

“But no, of course, getting more involved is what Pep wants. But should I get more involved? I don't know. That's the million dollar question. I want to make more assists and become a better player.”

Haaland will be hoping to continue his prolific form throughout the season as City chase a fifth successive Premier League title. He was delighted with their winning start to the season against Chelsea, who fought hard but failed to get back into the competition.

“Three points, a perfect start,” he said. “The first games are always difficult for everyone. It doesn't matter if you've had a pre-season or not. I've had a long pre-season but I don't feel perfect, I'm not in perfect condition. It's good to get this win.”

“I knew exactly what to do [for the goal]. I think it was a very good goal. I remember last year he [Sanchez] “He made a very good save against me. It had been irritating me for a long time, so yes, it was a perfect goal.”

Reflecting on his 100 appearances for City, Haaland added: “It's gone by so quickly. It's ridiculous how quickly it goes by, it's my third season now. I'm happy, especially now after the win.”

“It's the first game back and we're not in perfect shape, but we put in a really good performance. We stayed calm and played, it's incredible to see.”