Arsenal's name at the top of the Premier League table is in jeopardy today with Manchester City in action against Fulham. The Gunners, before kick-off, were two points clear of the reigning champions.
Man City took a huge step in lifting their fifth league title in six years in mid-week with a 4-1 win over the Gunners, to cut the gap to only two points.
With Mikel Arteta's men not in action this weekend, City were presented with the chance to rise above their league rivals with victory over Fulham. And Pep Guardiola's men started off in perfect fashion at Craven Cottage with Erling Haaland converting a penalty after only three minutes.
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The goal was Haaland's 50th goal of the season, his 34th in the Premier League, meaning he is only 13 away from equalling Dixie Dean's record of 63 goals - the most goals scored in a single season in all competitions in English top-flight football.
Haaland would need another 14 goals between now and the end of the season to break the record. His strike at Fulham means he now has 18 in 12 games, an extraordinary statistic for the striker.
The Norwegian's terrific first season in England has been superhuman, with the player often compared to a robot for his goalscoring nature. However, his presence in Guardiola's side is a big factor in the way the title race has turned out.
Arsenal don't have a prolific goalscorer in their ranks. In fact, Gabriel Martinelli - their top scorer this season - has 10 goals fewer than half of Haaland's total.
Other factors have contributed to the turn of events in recent weeks, including William Saliba's injury. However, if the title returns to the Etihad Stadium next month, Haaland's goals have been a big difference.
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