Erling Haaland Shatters Cristiano Ronaldo's Incredible Premier League Milestone

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland netted his 104th Premier League goal on Saturday afternoon, surpassing Cristiano Ronaldo's tally from his combined periods at Manchester United.

The 25-year-old forward maintained his exceptional form in 2025–26 with two goals and one assist during the Citizens' commanding 3–0 victory against West Ham United. Haaland found the net within five minutes of kickoff, provided the assist for Tijjani Reijnders's strike before the interval, and completed his double in the 69th minute.

This ruthless display not only delivered three crucial points for Man City but also elevated their top scorer above Ronaldo in the Premier League scoring rankings. Both attackers had been tied at 103 league goals, but Haaland moved ahead of the Portuguese superstar when he powered home his team's third goal at the Etihad.

What makes Haaland's achievement even more remarkable is the pace at which he matched the former Man United legend. The striker reached—and then exceeded—this landmark in 122 fewer matches than Ronaldo.

Haaland required only 114 matches to net 104 Premier League goals, while Ronaldo needed 236 games to reach 103. The five-time Ballon d'Or recipient also required two separate spells in Manchester to achieve this total.

Haaland, conversely, accomplished this feat in merely his fourth campaign with Man City. The prolific forward has already accumulated 19 league goals in 2024–25, and 26 strikes across all tournaments.

Haaland's Journey to 104 Premier League Goals

*Currently in progress

Haaland Pursuing Another European Golden Boot

Haaland currently maintains a substantial advantage in the Premier League Golden Boot competition. The Norwegian's 19 strikes place him at the top, with Brentford's Igor Thiago trailing in second position with 11 league goals.

More captivating, however, is Haaland's quest for the European Golden Boot. He claimed this accolade during his phenomenal inaugural season with Man City in 2022–23, becoming the first player in the club's history to earn this prestigious individual recognition.

Haaland hasn't secured the trophy since, but he's currently positioned to mount a serious challenge. The attacker leads the competition with 38 points, though Bayern Munich's Harry Kane and Real Madrid sensation Kylian Mbappé remain close contenders with 36 and 34 points respectively.

While securing another European Golden Boot would be gratifying, Haaland's primary focus remains helping Man City reclaim the English title. Pep Guardiola's squad currently leads the Premier League table with 37 points from 17 matches.

Arsenal have an opportunity to regain top spot when they face Everton on Saturday evening, though even a victory for the Gunners would only provide them a two-point advantage over the Citizens.