Haaland Strikes Again as City Hit Pep’s 250th Win

Another game, another Erling Haaland goal. Another milestone for Pep Guardiola. Manchester City’s 250th Premier League victory came with style and struggle in equal measure — a reminder that even a new-look City are still built to win.

Early Power, Same Result

It took just nine minutes for Haaland to do what he does best. Josko Gvardiol’s pass, a burst of pure strength and speed, and the Norwegian powerhouse smashed home his ninth goal of the season — scoring for the ninth straight league game.

At 25, now a father and one of Guardiola’s on-field leaders, Haaland looks sharper than ever. “I’ve never felt better,” he said after the game. “Having a kid helps me switch off from football. It keeps me balanced.”

City’s New Era, Same Mentality

This isn’t the City of old — no De Bruyne magic, no wave of familiar legends. But Guardiola’s side still carry that same relentless energy. Against Brentford, they controlled the first half with calm precision, even if the scoreline stayed tight.

Brentford pushed back hard after the break, testing every inch of City’s structure. Keith Andrews’ men fought bravely but lacked the finishing touch when it mattered. “I’m not sure how many strikers in the world could score that goal,” Andrews admitted, nodding to Haaland’s opener.

Guardiola’s Work in Progress

Guardiola wasn’t fully satisfied — as always. “Many things I like,” he said. “But there are things we can do better. The first half was one of our best in a long time.”

The City boss watched nervously as midfielder Rodri limped off with a hamstring issue, while Doku’s absence left the attack slightly short of flair. Still, City’s grip never truly slipped.

Brentford’s Missed Chances

Brentford had their moments. Igor Thiago’s golden one-on-one was stopped brilliantly by Donnarumma, and Michael Kayode’s header went wide soon after. For a moment, it felt like history could repeat — Brentford, the team that once beat City twice in a season. Not this time.

As pressure built, City looked less ruthless than their treble-winning selves. Haaland even dropped deep to defend long throw-ins — “It felt like Stoke City with Rory Delap,” he joked.

Pep and Erling: The New Axis

In stoppage time, Haaland and Guardiola were shouting in sync from the touchline — the striker directing, the coach adjusting. A perfect symbol of this new Manchester City: not yet flawless, but fearless.

With Haaland in this mood, and Guardiola still obsessed with perfection, another Premier League crown is far from impossible.