'I need to improve', says Haaland after barren spell

Erling Haaland declared that fatigue offers no justification for his recent lack of goals in 2026, while he urges himself to raise his game further to aid Manchester Citys pursuit of four competitions.

Haaland converted a tense penalty in added time to clinch a 2-1 win for City over Liverpool on Sunday, maintaining their position six points behind Arsenal in the Premier League contest.

The 25-year-old forward has recorded 28 goals across 36 matches for City this term.

However, he has gone without a goal from open play in the Premier League since 20 December and has managed only three strikes in his previous 13 outings.

"Naturally, I have not found the net sufficiently since the years beginning, and I recognise the need to step up," remarked the Norwegian star.

"I realise I must become sharper and more effective in every aspect, and this remains an area requiring my effort.

"I must persist, as that is what all anticipate and merit."

Pep Guardiola mentioned last month that Haaland appeared drained from an intense fixture list, with City engaged in four tournaments.

Guardiola squad will confront Arsenal in the League Cup decider next month, have advanced to the Champions League knockout stage, and are due to play fourth-division Salford in the FA Cup fourth round.

"I prefer not to discuss the reasons for my subpar showings. I believe no defence exists. Weariness largely resides in the mind," Haaland continued.

"The fixture congestion is intense. Consider the calendar, it proves challenging, and for me, maintaining fitness holds paramount importance, while preparing to support the side."

City appeared destined to trail Arsenal by nine points atop the standings until a frantic conclusion at Anfield.

The away team were behind following Dominik Szoboszlais superb free-kick with only six minutes of regulation time left, before Haaland assisted Bernardo Silva to equalise.

Haaland then stayed composed amid the heated crowd to convert from the penalty spot, reviving Citys title aspirations.

They could intensify the pressure on Arsenal with a win against Fulham on Wednesday, reducing the gap to three points before the leaders meet Brentford the following day.

"We have witnessed in the past that the title fight persists until its conclusion," Haaland noted.

"At present, my attention turns to Fulham, given the numerous fixtures ahead."