Man City's Erling Haaland claims Premier League Golden Boot for third time

Haaland was absent from the City lineup during a 2-1 loss to Aston Villa, as the team honoured Guardiola's decade of success in his last game leading the club.

With 27 goals in 35 league matches, Norwegian sensation Haaland narrowly missed helping City overtake Arsenal for the Premier League crown.

Joining Alan Shearer and Harry Kane as three-time recipients, Haaland now trails only Mohamed Salah and Thierry Henry, who have each claimed the award four times since the Premier League began.

Igor Thiago from Brentford secured second place with 22 goals, earning him a spot in Brazil's World Cup squad.

Haaland started the season on fire, netting 19 of his Premier League goals in the opening 17 fixtures.

His occasional goal drought highlighted his vital role in Guardiola's squad, potentially costing City the championship.

Between late December and early January, Haaland managed just one goal in seven appearances, converting a penalty against Brighton, with City securing only two victories in that period.

The 25-year-old striker rediscovered his form for the season's climax, delivering decisive goals against Liverpool and Arsenal in matches seen as pivotal for the title race.

Despite Haaland finding the net in both encounters, City stumbled at Everton and Bournemouth, ultimately handing Arsenal their first league title in 22 years.