Pep Guardiola has launched a strong defence of striker Erling Haaland and praised his Manchester City team as “incredibly well behaved”, following their drama-filled first match of the season

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola admits Erling Haaland has to look after himself with the striker getting no protection from referees as defenders try to halt him

Mikel Arteta has said he doesn't take Erling Haaland's "stay humble" jibe personally and insisted he retains a positive relationship with Pep Guardiola.

All was well in Manchester City’s universe 20 minutes into their Premier League home game against Arsenal last September. Erling Haaland had given them the lead with his 100th City goal and the champions looked on course to defeat their likely title rivals and begin the campaign with a fifth successive league win.

Haaland launched a ball at Gabriel’s head before telling Arteta to “stay humble” after the last match between Arsenal and Man City.