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Erling Haaland has said Manchester City are still in a “rebuilding phase” when compared to Arsenal, despite opening their Premier League season with a perfect record.

City have made a 100 per cent start to the campaign ahead of the London derby, and Haaland scored the only goal in Saturday’s 1-0 win over Coventry City as Pep Guardiola’s side made it three victories from their first three league matches.

The Norway striker believed City fully deserved the win, though he also conceded they should have been more ruthless in front of goal.

“I think we started really well and I think the first half was a really good half, created loads of chances,” Haaland said, speaking to the club’s official website.

“I think I should have scored a few more goals, to be honest but I didn’t, so I need to practice more on that!

“Second half we started really well as well but we managed to get them a little bit into the game which was not ideal but we won, we get three points and we kept a clean sheet which is also important so a good start to the season.”

Despite City’s strong beginning to the season, Haaland feels Arsenal hold an edge because their squad have been together for a longer period.

“Arsenal have played together for a long time and have built this up over a longer period, a bit like City had when I first joined,” Haaland told Viaplay.

“We’re still in a kind of rebuilding phase, but the transfer window has been fantastic, I have to say.

“Well done to the club and the people at the club. First and foremost, they’ve brought in fantastic footballers, but also great people who fit in really well. So well done to the whole club.”

That result keeps City among the early pace-setters and means they have taken maximum points from their opening three fixtures.

Haaland is expected to remain key to their title challenge, with his goals likely to be vital as City continue shaping their new-look squad.