Erling Haaland has made football history by achieving the dual distinction of being both the fastest and youngest player to score 40 goals in the Champions League, eclipsing Kylian Mbappe’s previous record.
The Norwegian phenom contributed a goal as Manchester City staged a comeback from a 2-0 deficit to triumph 3-2 against RB Leipzig, maintaining their unblemished record in this season’s premier European competition.
Haaland’s 40th goal in the Champions League came in only his 35th appearance, establishing him as the quickest player ever to reach this milestone, surpassing the previous record held by Ruud van Nistelrooy by 10 matches.
At the age of 23, Haaland also secured the title of the youngest player to reach 40 Champions League goals, breaking Mbappe’s record set in November 2022.
This remarkable achievement adds to Haaland’s week of records, having recently become the fastest player to score 50 goals in the Premier League. His goal against Liverpool in his 48th match in the English top-flight surpassed the previous mark of 65 games set by Andy Cole.
Speaking about City’s win, manager Pep Guardiola expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasising their ability to maintain high standards and consistency over the years. Looking ahead, Guardiola highlighted the significance of finishing first in the group stage to secure a favourable position in the Round of 16.
Pep Guardiola said: “Of course we are incredibly happy to have qualified with two games left. Finish first. We have time to think about it. Maybe we were not… clinical is not the right word… not clear, sweet, soft enough in the last moment to score more goals. But I love to see the team.
“The word that has defined this group of players for many years is consistency. We have high standards, and that is why we are still in the Premier League and qualified for the Champions League. People say, ‘Yeah, the group stage is easy’, but you have to do it. In life, you have to do it when people expect you to do it. Two games left.
“Leipzig are the toughest opponents in this group and we have to try and finish further. It is important in the last 16 to have the weapon of second game at home rather than away.”
After helping City clinch the top spot in their group, Haaland may be allowed a rest for their final match against Crvena Zvezda in December. And the Norwegian will be looking to further boost his Premier League goal tally when the Cityzens take on title rivals Tottenham Hotspur back at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.