“Erling Haaland is an animal! Newly acquired Manchester City player Enzo Fernandez praised the Norwegian star striker after the Champions League win
Enzo Fernandez was beaming with joy after Manchester City’s convincing 2-0 win away to Porto in the Champions League. The Argentine was quick to praise teammate Erling Haaland – and revealed that he has already found chemistry with the goal-scoring Norwegian.
Read: Erling Haaland: 59 Champions League games and an incredible 59 goals
After the game, he also thanked manager Enzo Maresca for giving him the chance at the Etihad Stadium.
City with a dream start in Europe
On Tuesday night, the English giants were in action at the Estadio do Dragão, and they delivered the goods from the first minute. Maresca’s side dominated the hosts from Portugal, and Haaland ensured security with two goals in the second half – both after excellent play from Fernandez.
The away win marks a great start to the European adventure for City, who at the same time continue their impressive form so far this season.
Fernandez: “They have welcomed me with open arms”
The Argentine midfielder has already settled into his new surroundings. After the game, he was full of praise for both teammates and fans.
“I’m so happy that the City players welcomed me as soon as I walked in the door. They’re not just brilliant footballers – it’s just as much about the people they are. Everyone has been incredibly kind to me, and the supporters have been absolutely fantastic in the way they’ve welcomed me. This is a new chapter in my career and I’m really looking forward to getting started,” Fernandez said.
Read: Edvin Austbø opted out of historic Champions League participation in exchange for the chance of the Premier League
“Haaland is a beast”
The chemistry between Fernandez and Haaland was evident right from the start. In the 47th minute, the Argentine set up perfectly for the Norwegian, who smashed Porto’s defence and sent City into the lead.
After the game, Fernandez had nothing but praise to say about his teammate.
“Erling Haaland is an animal. He’s a beast. So every time he’s on the pitch, I’m going to look for him – and hopefully give him a lot more assists. But it’s not just about the footballer he is. He’s also a fantastic person, and he’s really welcomed me and helped me settle in,” said a clearly excited Fernandez.
He also reflected on his reunion with Maresca – whom he knows well from his time at Chelsea.
“I am so grateful that Enzo Maresca did everything he could to make this transfer happen. He knows me incredibly well from our time at Chelsea and I am deeply grateful for everything he has done for me and my family. I will give 100 percent in every training session and every game – to repay him for the trust,” he added.
Eyes set on the Manchester derby
After a solid away win in Europe, new challenges now await in the Premier League. City have built up an impressive momentum this season, and the stability in midfield with Fernandez – combined with Haaland’s relentless finishing – testifies to a team in top form.
Next weekend, local rivals Manchester United await in a long-awaited derby. A concerted and determined effort in Portugal provided just the perfect recharge Maresca’s side needed to defend their national dominance.
