Erling Haaland underlines what will decide Man City and Arsenal’s title battle

(PA)

Erling Haaland believes the key to Manchester City’s title decider with Arsenal lies in the mind and said it is vital not to overthink things.

While Arsenal have been accused of being too intense, the City top scorer thinks that calmness is crucial as he looks to secure a victory that would put his team only three points behind the league leaders.

City manager Pep Guardiola has long faced suggestions he overthinks this, but Haaland feels a positive mindset could be the deciding factor at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

He explained: “I have always said that you need to take care of your body. But for me, the mind and being in a good state of mind is really important. Now, it is a huge game coming up.

“You should stay calm in your head and don’t think of too much, because that’s the worst thing that can happen. How I prepare? It’s to train good, it’s to prepare well tactically with the team and it's to try to be free in your mind. Don’t think too much, don’t overthink too much, think positively and try to get ready for the game mentally and physically.”

Brentford striker Igor Thiago is now only one goal behind Haaland in the race to be the Premier League’s top scorer, with 21 goals to the Norwegian’s 22, but the City player said he is not concerned.

He added: “I think right now the Golden Boot is not something I think about. Of course, I want to win the Golden Boot every single year, but I prefer to win trophies and that is my main focus.”