Haaland's Spectacular Brace Ignites Man City's Impressive Triumph in Premier League Opener

Manchester City effortlessly initiated their Premier League title defense with a convincing 3-0 triumph at Turf Moor, while Burnley suffered a humbling reintroduction to the top flight. Having triumphed in their last 11 encounters against Burnley with an aggregate score of 40-1, it came as little shock when City netted their first goal in the fourth minute.

Erling Haaland, unsurprisingly, scored the goal as he found a gap within a densely packed penalty area and elegantly placed the ball into the bottom corner from a headed pass by Rodri.

In the 36th minute, Haaland impressively struck another first-time shot that bounced off the crossbar and into the net. Rodri later added the third goal in the second half. However, Anass Zaroury was shown a straight red card after a VAR review for a reckless tackle on Kyle Walker.

City didn't have it easy, as they unfortunately lost Kevin De Bruyne to yet another injury during the first half. Guardiola admitted that starting the midfielder may have been a mistake. However, the manner in which they effortlessly collected three points serves as a foreboding sign for the rest of the Premier League.

Unfortunately, he has sustained another injury. He revealed to me that it is a recurring issue in the same position as during the Champions League. Although he had been recovering well, we now have to face the loss of him for a while. It is essential for us to contemplate and hold discussions with the doctors and physiotherapists. He needs to remain calm, focus on recuperation, and ultimately return. He was in a positive and promising state prior to the setback.

How ruthless City exposed Burnley's set-piece frailties

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Rodri celebrates scoring Man City's third goal

Vincent Kompany, who captained City to four Premier League titles as a player, had previously cautioned about his side's performance on the Premier League's opening night. Keeping that in consideration, a visit from the English and European champions was less than desirable. To make matters worse, the team, consisting of six debutants, quickly fell behind when Haaland scored against former City goalkeeper James Trafford after Rodri headed down a corner.

The England U21 goalkeeper had no chance of stopping City's second goal, as Haaland skillfully put away Julian Alvarez's pass into the top corner with precision.

Burnley had a penalty claim turned down when Zeki Amdouni went down too easily under pressure from Manuel Akanji. Additionally, a disturbing incident occurred when Rico Lewis was hit by a lighter thrown from the crowd near the corner flag.

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Despite the setback of De Bruyne's injury, City seamlessly adapted with Mateo Kovacic seamlessly stepping into the midfield, showcasing their dominance over their opponent.

During half-time, Pep Guardiola and Haaland engaged in a heated discussion while walking towards the tunnel. The manager appeared displeased with the striker's on-field grievances. However, City regained their composure in the second half, asserting their control over the game and maintaining possession. Burnley found themselves scrambling, constantly in pursuit of the ball. In addition, Rodri capitalized on the Clarets' weakness in defending set-pieces and successfully scored City's third goal from close range.

Burnley's night took a turn for the worse when Zaroury received a red card, previously issued as a yellow card, after a VAR review. He had caught Walker on the calf with a reckless sliding challenge.

Kompany now has a two-week window to prepare his team for their upcoming match against Aston Villa. Meanwhile, City will persistently strive for victory as they face Sevilla in the European Super Cup on Wednesday, in their pursuit of more silverware.

Kompany unhappy as fans boo players taking a knee

Kompany affirmed that his team will progress throughout the season, expressing to We: "We had five players who initiated their inaugural match for the club and we had one player who made his professional debut.

We had opportunities despite knowing we would face difficulties.

We must focus on the positives from this match. Although a loss is never satisfying, I witnessed enough to indicate that we have improved since our previous encounter. The growth of this team is inevitable and it will continue to strengthen.

Kompany also admitted his dissatisfaction with the fans who booed during the players' kneeling gesture before the start of the game, stating: "To be frank, this is not something unheard of. It goes without saying that I cannot find joy in it, especially considering the implications it has on my skin color."

The number of people who booed has significantly decreased, while there is a substantial audience who applauded.

I strongly believe in the power of time and collaboration. They are integral members of our family, regardless of the circumstances, and we must transform our mindset.

Pep: 'No problem' with Haaland

Guardiola dismissed any claims of a rift with Haaland after the game, stating: "In the second half, we adopted a more direct approach, focusing on getting the ball to Haaland. He constantly demands the ball and wants to be involved in the play."

"He insisted, 'pass it to me from behind, one-on-one, and I will execute it.' However, with only a couple of minutes remaining in the first half, Kovacic and Rodri relinquished possession.

"Bernardo [Silva] rightfully chose not to provide him with another ball. Nonetheless, this is not an issue. He managed to score two goals and he is genuinely delighted."

Haaland acknowledged that his manager was displeased with his grievances towards his teammates, stating to We: "It stemmed from the previous play when Bernardo didn't pass the ball to me - he [Pep] was somewhat frustrated with me.

"Everyone can observe my progression in the game. I give my utmost effort every single day."

Kovacic slots smoothly into City midfield

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Mateo Kovacic made his Premier League debut as a substitute for Man City. It's surprising that he and Pep Guardiola haven't collaborated before, considering how well-suited the midfielder is to the manager's preferences. Kovacic possesses numerous skills that Guardiola admires, including his ability to handle pressure, make accurate passes, and adjust to different tactical requirements.

Although there are more challenging opponents than Burnley on the horizon, Kovacic's first appearance in the Premier League for the champions showed immense potential. Operating within a compact midfield trio, he impressively recorded a pass-completion rate of approximately 95 percent, surpassed only by the exceptional Rodri.

So smooth was Kovacic’s performance that City were barely affected by the loss of De Bruyne. Promising signs for the Croatian and his new boss.

Opta stats: Haaland reaches his ton

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What's next?

Manchester City play Sevilla in the European Super Cup on Wednesday - kick-off 8pm - before hosting Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday - kick-off 8pm.