‘That’s the spirit’ – Man City fans react as Erling Haaland cites Real Madrid star as reference point in career

Erling Haaland has revealed that he wants to improve as much as he can while at Manchester City, citing Real Madrid’s Karim Benzema as reference point in his career.

Haaland is without doubt one of the top strikers in the game today and has made a very bright start to life in the Premier League.

City fought hard with Real Madrid to win the striker’s signature, as the Spanish giants were widely believed to be the frontrunners to sign him.

There is little argument that Karim Benzema is one of the finest forwards in football nowadays, but his development into his mid-thirties is just as remarkable as his talent. Over the last three seasons Benzema continues to improve both on the pitch and in statistics.

It has not gone unnoticed in the footballing world. Haaland is clearly a big fan of the French striker’s ability to continue growing better, even at 34 years of age.

Speaking to FourFourTwo, the new Manchester City number nine has highlighted Benzema as a role model.

“You can never stop looking for new ways to become better,” Haaland said.

“Look at Karim Benzema at Real Madrid. He’s 34 now, and suddenly he’s developed into an even better player over the last couple of years – that’s insanely good. I want to always do that.”

These Haaland’s comments were shared on Twitter by City Xtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the club’s supporters.

“That’s the spirit, Haaland. You are still 22 and have a long time to learn from Pep and your teammate 👍”
Credit: @El_Albicelestes

“Top tier mentality.”
Credit: @mr__carlitos

“Take your time you have lots of time”
Credit: @MervynZoysa

“How can you not love him 😍”
Credit: @NepaliManc

“He’s going to be as good as Benzema and Lewandowski in combine”
Credit: @mcfctotti2