ANNIVERSARY DINKS ARE ON ME

Haaland marks his 100th City game in style as Blues are brushed aside

- NEIL MCLEMAN

PEP GUARDIOLA reckons Erling Haaland's scoring exploits are right up there with Messi and Ronaldo after he got Manchester City's title defence off to a winning start.

The Norwegian netted the opener at Stamford Bridge with a lovely dink - his 91st goal in his 100th City appearance.

Former Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic scored the second after the break for the defending champions.

Boss Guardiola, who signed Haaland in 2022, said: "That is a number for Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. I don't know how he does it. To score 91 goals in 100 games. In the Premier League, it is unbelievable."

And the Spaniard warned that Haaland is in even better condition than last season when he scored 38 goals despite missing two months through injury.

Guardiola said: "I have the feeling that he feels better than last season at this stage. He's had more rest and feels good."

Haaland also wants more and said: "I can get more involved, that's what Pep wants but games like this do I need to be more involved?

"I want to improve with the ball. I want to give more assists. I want to become a better player."

It was normal service resumed for the champions as they sent a clear message of intent to their Premier League rivals with a perfect start.