Erling Haaland's Wembley attitude shows true colours ahead of new Manchester City season

Finally! Finally, Manchester City got their hands on the Community Shield at the fifth time of asking. While no one is pretending this is the most important trophy the Blues want this season, Pep Guardiola has always made it clear he considers this a prestigious piece of silverware and he knows ending his side's recent losing run in this contest, especially against Manchester United, is an key moment for the squad.

Erling Haaland was also hoping to end his own Wembley hoodoo, having not scored in his previous four Wembley appearances. Unfortunately, this proved not to be the match and he will have to wait a little longer to score in open play at the English national stadium. However, he did at least successfully convert his effort in the penalty shootout.

But to solely judge Haaland on whether he scored in this glorified friendly would be short-sighted. As would his involvements, he had 18 touches, just two of which where inside the United box, 14 passes and won two of his five duels, but failed to have a shot, on or off target. His contribution in City matches when he does not score has been long debated and, no doubt, will continue to be by many pundits in the 2024/25 campaign.

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At this stage of his City career - entering his third season with the Premier League champions - it feels more relevant to examine Haaland on his attitude. At points last season, not helped by injuries, he cut a frustrated and angry figure on the pitch and in some of his post-match discussions with his teammates and manager as he left the field, with his