'Better than the treble season!' - Pep Guardiola in awe of Erling Haaland after derby-day brace as he hails 'the heart of the club' Phil Foden for masterful midfield display

Haaland scored twice to take his Premier League tally to five goals in four matches this season. The Norwegian also surpassed Didier Drogba in the league's top scorers list, underlining his lethal form in front of goal. Foden opened the scoring in the 18th minute, netting his first Premier League strike since January to set City on their way. Guardiola has now praised both the goalscorers after the Manchester derby win.

Haaland has now netted 16 times in his last 10 appearances for club and country. Guardiola believes the 24-year-old is performing at an even higher level than during City’s treble-winning season. With Foden rediscovering his form, City’s midfield and attack look sharper and more balanced than ever.

“Erling has been incredible since the start but this season he is better than ever. I would say better than the Treble year. He’s dynamic and I don’t judge him for the clearance, we want him to score goals and to help us,” Guardiola told reporters.

On Foden, he added: “We missed him so much and the season before he was the best player in the Premier League so we need him, he has a work ethic. Phil is the core, the heart of the club, from the academy and he loves City. To have him back is good news.”

Manchester City have eyed Foden as the final replacement for Kevin de Bruyne; however, the Englishman will now have to go toe-to-toe with the Belgian when City take on Napoli in the Champions League opener on Thursday, September 18.