Haaland: Today's events represent a step in the right direction

Erling Haaland, Manchester City's striker, confirmed that the team still needs to play more matches to reach its best levels, following their 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace in the second round of the Premier League.

Haaland stated in an interview with "Sky Sports": "The preparation period was short. Ryan Cherki was with his national team at the World Cup just five weeks ago. As the matches go on, we will regain our level, and we just need to play some games."

He added in his remarks: "We played well. We have a new coach, but we've been playing together for a while, with some new players joining. We know what we need to do, and we have to trust the system."

Speaking about his teammate Phil Foden, Haaland stressed the importance of continuing the harmony between them and the rest of the team, saying: "We need to keep playing together and know the positions where we are at our best, and how we can play appropriately."

He explained: "We have a lot of great players, and we need to find the right way to involve everyone. Foden has to keep working, because we know how good he is, and what is required of him is to show that week after week."

Haaland concluded his remarks by stating: "I believe what happened today represents a step in the right direction for everyone, and we now need to build on this performance and continue to develop."