For most football players around the globe, scoring two goals in a single game would typically lead to a significant boost in popularity. However, for Erling Haaland, it’s just another Saturday in the life of an extraordinary athlete. This week, the Norwegian superstar has retained his position at the top of the Goalden View Popularity Ranking (GVPR), but his points increase was surprisingly modest, with only 525 additional points added to his tally.
This phenomenon is not new for Haaland; it highlights the unique expectations surrounding his performances. Earlier this season, when Manchester City traveled to London to face West Ham, the team secured a convincing 3-1 victory, with Haaland showcasing his remarkable skills by scoring a stunning hat trick. Yet, even with this impressive achievement, his GVPR points saw a mere increase of 568 points.
This raises the question about the high standards Erling Haaland has set for himself in such a brief period in the Premier League. The forward has already shattered the record for most goals scored in a single season during his debut year and has continued to impress ever since. Has Haaland passed the point that scoring a brace or hat trick no longer drastically improves his popularity?
Reaching the stage where scoring a brace is regarded as just another day at the office is an incredible achievement. However, this remarkable standard comes with its downsides. If Haaland doesn’t find the back of the net in a match, it can leave fans feeling underwhelmed and may potentially affect his status at the top of the GVPR. This high level of expectation creates immense pressure on the forward, as he consistently strives to meet and exceed the lofty benchmarks he and the fans have set for him. Despite these high expectations, the Norwegian international seems unfazed as he continues to deliver impressive performances without looking like slowing down anytime soon.