Haaland Sets New Manchester Derby Scoring Record Against Manchester United
Erling Haaland has set a new Manchester derby scoring benchmark after his 60th-minute winner in the 199th meeting with Manchester United, taking his Premier League total against the club to nine goals from eight appearances.
The Norwegian forward’s strike delivered an important victory for Enzo Maresca’s 10-man team at Old Trafford and moved Haaland clear of two previous record holders: Wayne Rooney and former City striker Sergio Aguero, who had each scored eight league goals in the fixture.
Haaland said the possibility of taking the record had been on his mind before the match. He had seen the statistic beforehand and admitted it stayed with him, adding that the achievement made him particularly proud because of the derby’s importance to both sets of supporters.
City had spent a sustained spell on the front foot before Haaland found room in the penalty area and produced the finish that separated the sides. There was a three-minute VAR check after the ball went in, but the goal was eventually confirmed, quietening the home crowd.
The 26-year-old said his finishing is based less on a pre-planned formula than on reacting to the moment. His focus, he explained, is to choose the finish that feels right and strike the ball well enough to keep it beyond the goalkeeper.
A derby connection
Haaland also reflected on the relationship he has developed with City fans since joining from Borussia Dortmund. He described the back-and-forth between rival supporters as part of the appeal of a match played with such emotion, while stressing that the contest remains about representing the team and enjoying football’s competitive edge.
The striker said the fixture has carried a special meaning for him since his first Manchester United match at the Etihad Stadium several seasons ago. His latest decisive contribution has only strengthened that connection, while adding another individual milestone to his City record.
Despite his prolific start against United and a career already filled with scoring landmarks, Haaland believes there remains further progress to make. He said his priority is to keep improving at 26, provide decisive moments for Manchester City and approach a long campaign one match at a time as the club pursues more trophies.
