7M - Haaland credits Silva after City edge Arsenal in title race clash

Erling Haaland scored the decisive goal as Manchester City defeated Arsenal 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium on April 19, 2026, but the striker reserved special praise for teammate Bernardo Silva. Haaland compared Silva's defensive contribution to legendary defender Fabio Cannavaro, telling Sky Sports: "You were like Cannavaro today."

The Norwegian forward netted the winner in the 65th minute, becoming only the second player to score in four straight Premier League matches against Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, following Liverpool's Diogo Jota. Despite the spotlight on his goal, Haaland emphasized Silva's influence, particularly a late intervention to clear a cross ahead of Viktor Gyokeres.

Silva, who is set to depart City when the season concludes, received heartfelt acknowledgment from his teammate. "Bernie, I am not going to make it emotional. You were amazing as well," Haaland added.

The victory narrows the title gap, with City now three points behind league leaders Arsenal and holding a match in hand. Pep Guardiola's side face Burnley on April 22, 2026, a fixture Haaland described as equally critical. "Every game is a final," he stated. "We need to stay focused, stay humble."

Haaland also addressed his on-field confrontation with Arsenal defender Gabriel, which drew scrutiny but no sending-off. "A lot of fighting and these kinds of things happen," he remarked. "If I fell on the floor, which I will not do unless someone really attacks me, it might be a red card. I am not sure. It is what it is."