Manchester City’s wrecking ball has awoken and it could prove defining in this season’s title race

Manchester City’s wrecking ball that is Erling Haaland has awoken. His four goals against Wolves in City’s 5-1 win at the Etihad showed that City’s number 9 is back to his devastating best. If Erling Haaland does carry the form he has shown in his past two appearances through the remainder of the season, it could prove to be a decisive factor in this season’s title race.

It was clear last weekend that during Manchester City’s 2-nil win over Nottingham Forest that City’s wrecking ball looked back to his best. After coming on as a substitute at the City Ground last weekend, Haaland scored the goal that helped secure Pep Guardiola’s side a precious three points. Haaland looked fit and ready to help his team’s bid for a fourth consecutive Premier League title during his cameo appearance last weekend.

But he took that to another level against Wolves at the Etihad Stadium today. City’s wrecking ball scored four goals as he put Wolves to the sword in an inspired performance. It was a performance reminiscent of Haaland’s record-breaking season last campaign. His finishing was absolutely brilliant as his first half hat trick helped secure City a precious three points by halftime. Haaland’s fourth goal of the afternoon was a typical Haaland goal and was one that could strike fear into City’s final four opponents of the season.

Besides his sublime finishing Haaland’s movement and confidence, it looks to have returned. With that combination back, City’s number 9 is one of the most damaging players in world football. After missing two months of the season due to a foot injury, it has taken time for Haaland’s confidence to return. But it was back in emphatic fashion today as he helped lead his team to a crucial victory at the Etihad Stadium.

When Erling Haaland is at his best, he gives the world champions a weapon unlike any other in world football. That was on full display today against Wolves. City’s wrecking ball has the capability to be the decisive factor in this season’s title race. If he can continue his strong form over City’s last three Premier League games, he may help lead Pep Guardiola’s side to a record-breaking feat.