Phil Foden has labelled his Man City team-mate Erling Haaland as a ‘freak’ following his stunning acrobatic goal in their 5-0 win over Sparta Prague.
Pep Guardiola’s side had led 1-0 against Sparta Prague at the Etihad Stadium, with Foden having giving the hosts the lead over the Czech team.
Haaland doubled the advantage in outrageous fashion after being set-up by Brazilian winger Savinho.
The forward produced a backheeled volley with his left foot to send the ball into the corner of the Sparta Prague net following a lofted cross.
Foden lauded Haaland’s effort post-match, suggesting he would have ended up on the treatment table had he tried a similarly acrobatic effort.
‘I just spoke to him if I tried to do that I’d pull my groin,’ Foden told TNT Sports.
‘I don’t know how he does it, I just think it’s just his long legs are. He’s a freak, isn’t he?
‘I’ve seen him score one similar against Borussia Dortmund.
‘It shows he has this talent that no-one else can do.’
Haaland’s athleticism was praised by former Man United defender Rio Ferdinand, who drew the comparison to legendary Swedish forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
Ibrahimovic earned a reputation for acrobatic goals during his career, including a memorable long-range bicycle kick against England back in 2012.
‘This is Zlatan Ibrahimovic vibes,’ Ferdinand said.
That body of theirs is able to get into positions that not many people can do and control the football.
‘You have got to know your body and know you can take your body to that kind of extreme.
He is obviously doing a lot of stuff off the pitch that enables him to do that.
The strength and flexibility, a wonderful footballer.’
Haaland’s effort proved the highlight of a perfect night for Man City, as Guardiola’s side eased to a 5-0 victory.
The forward scored his second of the night following a swift Man City counter attack, while John Stones and a Matheus Nunes penalty added to the scoreline.
Man City’s 5-0 win continues their strong start in the Champions League with seven points from three matches, placing them third in the league phase behind Aston Villa and Liverpool.
Haaland’s brace on the evening takes the forward to 13 goals in 12 appearances for Man City this season.