Erling Haaland reveals 'special' Leeds United fantasy after Elland Road ovation and big irritation

Haaland, 22, described his first outing at Elland Road as a ‘special’ moment given his family’s links to the city, and received a standing ovation at full-time from all four corners of the ground. The hulking centre-forward was born in Leeds during the summer of 2000 when his father Alfie [Alf-Inge] played for the Whites and retains a connection to the area where he spent much of his youth.

The ex-Leeds man and father of the show-stopping centre-forward was in attendance to witness his son score twice as Pep Guardiola’s side recorded a routine victory in the end over Leeds.

Speaking following the game, Haaland said of the experience: “With my father and mother here today, it’s special.”

"I have to say it’s special. It’s a really special moment in my career. It’s really weird, it’s in my craziest fantasy, to score for City against Leeds.

"I just said it inside [the dressing room], I could have scored five. But we won, that’s the most important [thing]. We have to hunt Arsenal.

"I’m really happy, I could have scored more but that’s life! What can I do? I’ll practice more!"

Haaland had a golden opportunity to score a hat-trick during the second half, on what was his first visit to Elland Road as a player, but squandered the chance, firing low into Illan Meslier’s midriff. He was also denied on a number of other occasions by the returning goalkeeper who made sure the scoreline remained respectable throughout.

"Being at home, I was a bit mad that I wasn't playing at the World Cup," Haaland added.

"I kind of recharged my batteries. Watching other players score goals triggers me and irritates me, I’m hungrier than ever.

"I have got a number [goals target], but I cannot say. No comment!"