Credit: Imago

Alex Oakhill

Thu 26 February 2026 19:10, UK

Daniel Farke made a tongue-in-cheek comparison between Erling Haaland and Dominic Calvert-Lewin ahead of Leeds United’s clash with Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola’s side travel to Elland Road on Saturday evening as they continue their Premier League title push.

As for the Whites, they are in a battle of their own, hoping to move further away from the relegation zone by securing all three points in West Yorkshire.

Leeds are currently six points clear of 18th-place West Ham United, and having lost just two of their last 16 games in all competitions, they do have some hope going into the contest.

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Farke: ‘Calvert-Lewin only player close to Haaland’

Calvert-Lewin has been the story of the season at Leeds, rediscovering his spark in front of goal following a summer move from Everton.

The former England international came to Elland Road on a free transfer and has already scored 10 top-flight goals this term.

Leeds boss Farke cheekily suggested that Calvert-Lewin was the only striker in the world close to the ability of Haaland ahead of their game against Man City.

In his pre-match press conference, the German recognised the Norwegian’s immense ability, but was also keen to mention his own centre-forward.

Farke said: “Erling Haaland is probably the best striker in the world, the only one who comes close to him is Dominic Calvert-Lewin, of course.”

A slight smile came across Farke’s face after the comment, hinting that he was being slightly generous to Calvert-Lewin.

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Where does Calvert-Lewin rank in Premier League?

While labelling him as the second-best striker in the world is a step too far, even for most Leeds fans, Calvert-Lewin has undoubtedly been one of the best centre-forwards in the Premier League since the start of December.

The former Everton man is currently fifth in the top scorer list this season, which is quite the feat considering he had only scored once in the top-flight before matchweek 13.

Unsurprisingly, Haaland currently tops the list with 22 goals from 27 appearances, followed by Igor Thiago, Antoine Semenyo, Joao Pedro and Hugo Ekitike.

Calvert-Lewin’s goal-scoring has actually slowed down in recent times, and he has only found the back of the net once in his last six appearances.

However, the 28-year-old has continued to make a huge impact for Leeds and will surely be back among the goals soon.

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