'Next time we’ll have to score five' - Erling Haaland sends ominous warning after Man City's thrilling eight-goal draw with Chelsea

The reigning champions hit the target on four occasions during a dramatic contest at Stamford Bridge, but that was still only enough to take a share of the points in a remarkable 4-4 draw. Pep Guardiola sets such lofty standards at the Etihad Stadium that City are never happy unless they are blowing opponents away.

They did that last season when landing a historic Treble, and the intention is to do the same in 2023-24. Haaland led the way last term with a remarkable haul of 52 goals across all competitions and – following a brace at Stamford Bridge – the prolific Norwegian is up to 17 efforts through 18 games this time around.

Haaland believes City can take their game to even greater heights, telling reporters on the back of an eight-goal classic in west London: “It was a tough game, I enjoyed it. Normally when you score four goals you might win but we didn’t - that’s how it is. We had the chance to seal the win a couple of times, but we didn’t. It’s something we’ve got to work on. Next time we’ll have to score five. I feel good to score but a bit disappointed to not win. One point is better than zero. We’ve been doing really good. We’re top of the league and already through in the Champions League. It’s been a really good couple of months - better than last season to be honest. It’s been a good start.”

City have reached the November international break perched at the top of the Premier League table – with a one-point lead held over Liverpool and Arsenal – while they have progressed into the last-16 of the Champions League with two games to spare.