Haaland Double Sends City Top; Postecoglou Becomes Premier League’s Shortest-Lived Boss
Manchester City soared to the top of the Premier League thanks to a dominant 2-0 victory over Everton, fueled by a brace from Erling Haaland. However, the headlines were shared with Nottingham Forest's abrupt decision to sack manager Ange Postecoglou after just eight games in charge.
Haaland's goals, scored in quick succession in the second half, were his 10th and 11th league goals of the season. The Norwegian striker's clinical finishing proved to be the difference, breaking down a stubborn Everton defense that had frustrated City in the first half. Haaland's first goal came from a powerful header following a cross from Nico O'Reilly. Just minutes later, he added a second with a composed finish, extending City's lead and securing the three points. Despite having a couple of late chances, Haaland was unable to complete his hat-trick.
City's manager, Pep Guardiola, praised Haaland's performance but also emphasized the need for other players to contribute to the scoring effort. Guardiola joked about Haaland not scoring four or five goals, while also noting that the team cannot solely rely on him. He stressed that wingers and attacking midfielders need to "make a step up" and increase their goal output.
While City celebrated their ascent to the league summit, Nottingham Forest was in turmoil. The club announced the sacking of Ange Postecoglou just minutes after their 3-0 home defeat to Chelsea. The Australian manager's tenure lasted a mere 39 days, making it the shortest reign of a permanent manager in Premier League history. Postecoglou's departure came after a string of disappointing results, with Forest failing to win any of their eight matches under his leadership. The team lost six matches and drew two during his brief spell.
The defeat against Chelsea proved to be the final straw, with goals from Josh Acheampong, Pedro Neto and Reece James sealing Postecoglou's fate. According to reports, Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis left his seat midway through the game, a clear sign of the impending decision. The club released a brief statement confirming Postecoglou's dismissal, citing "a series of disappointing results and performances".
Postecoglou's appointment followed the dismissal of Nuno Espirito Santo, with the intention of implementing a more attacking style of play. However, the team struggled to adapt, and Postecoglou found himself under pressure. Before the game, Postecoglou had insisted he needed time to implement his ideas and deliver success, referencing his Europa League title with Tottenham Hotspur.
The swiftness of Postecoglou's sacking has raised eyebrows, with many questioning the club's decision to part ways with him so quickly. Former Burnley and Everton manager Sean Dyche is already being linked with the vacant position. Forest will be looking to appoint a new manager quickly, with a Europa League match against Porto looming.
