Erling Haaland had another productive afternoon for Manchester City before adding a rather more relaxed Argentine and Uruguayan touch to his Sunday.
The Norwegian striker scored twice as City beat Ipswich Town 3-2 on Saturday, a result that kept Pep Guardiola’s side clear at the top of the Premier League. With the fixture won and the table still looking favourable from a City perspective, Haaland spent Sunday thanking a few familiar faces for introducing him to mate.
Posting on social media, Haaland offered his appreciation to Julián Álvarez, Enzo Fernández and goalkeeper Gerónimo Rulli, writing: “Thanks to Julián, Enzo and Gero for introducing me to this wonderful drink.”
Mate is a long-established custom in Argentina and Uruguay, and Haaland’s new enthusiasm drew quick responses from two of the players he credited. Former City forward Álvarez, now at Atlético Madrid, replied: “Erlingoooo”, while Chelsea midfielder Fernández answered: “Protocolooooo”.
For Haaland, it rounded off a weekend containing both a league-leading position and another two goals. City’s 3-2 victory over Ipswich ensured they remained alone at the Premier League summit, while their centre-forward appears to have found a new post-match ritual to go with the usual finishing.
