Vincent Kompany explains why Erling Haaland is proving a Man City exception under Pep Guardiola

Vincent Kompany says he'd have relished marking Erling Haaland as he begins plotting a way of stopping the Man City superstar.

The Norway international plundered five goals as Pep Guardiola's side demolished German outfit RB Leipzig in the Champions League in midweek. It took his season tally to 39 goals in 36 games since his summer arrival from Borussia Dortmund.

The 22-year-old is one of most feared forwards on the planet but Kompany, an Etihad legend, was one of the best centre backs in the world during his glittering playing career and admits he'd have enjoyed matching up against City's number nine.

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"Because I was naturally a competitor yes. I would have always enjoyed the challenge," said the former City captain on taking on the frontman, who he believes has adapted as well as anyone to playing for Guardiola.

"I always remember that playing for Pep, always the first year is a little bit difficult because he has a lot of info, a lot of concepts different from anywhere you play previously and then you have to make it happen.

"I remember Riyad Mahrez was on the bench for most of his first season. Haaland has had more pressure than on any other player joining, in his first year at a young age expected to be at his best. His goalscoring is unbelievable and his overall game has improved."

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