by Thomas Frank has called Erling Haaland’s move “the best we’ve ever seen” ahead of Brentford’s trip to the Etihad Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday.
Brentford will be looking to build on their 3-1 win over Southampton before the international break when they take on Haaland’s Manchester City on Saturday.
The Norwegian striker is back at the top of the Championship’s top scorers’ charts after scoring seven goals in his first three games, including consecutive hat-tricks in wins over promoted Ipswich and Julen Lopetegui’s West Ham.
“A lot of teams tried to neutralize him, he’s a great player,” Frank said at a news conference Thursday.
“I think his movements in the box are the best we’ve ever seen, with the way he anticipates and synchronizes movements with a drop of the shoulder.
“He’s constantly on the move in terms of where the ball is and he’s constantly focused on himself and aware that it’s top level. He can play in behind, he’s not only explosive, quick and strong, but so focused that he makes sure he times it at the right moment.
“He’s a good player, he plays in the best team in the world. We will do everything we can to play a good match.”
City beat Frank’s Brentford twice last season, but in the 2022-23 campaign the west Londoners celebrated a double against the Manchester club.
Frank insisted Brentford will need a bit of luck if they are to inflict City’s first defeat of the season.
“We are up for the challenge, we have played well against City every time we have played them,” he added.
“I’m very respectful because I know that if you disconnect you can lose 5-0. I hope we play well.
“We’re going to need a little luck.”
Ivan Toney has bid farewell to Brentford after the striker’s same-day move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli ended a long-running transfer saga.
The striker, who had scored 36 Premier League goals for Frank’s side since their promotion in 2021, will be a big loss according to the Bees boss.
“Ivan has been fantastic for us,” Frank said.
“He’s played a huge part in our success over the last four years, he’s been one of the most important players, there’s no doubt about that.
“Ivan had character off the field, in his ability to carry the team, in his ability to bring humility on a daily basis.
“He will undoubtedly be missed as a player and as a person and I wish him the best.”
