Erling Haaland Scores Twice as Man City Claim Victory to Move to the Summit.

The Norwegian goal machine bagged a double to help the reigning champions defeat beleaguered West Ham United for a fifth consecutive Premier League win.

This result propelled them to the league's summit, one point clear of Arsenal, a side that have a chance to retake top spot later on Saturday.

The visiting team, managed by Nuno, needed a strong opening however conceded early inside five minutes when Haaland tucked home at the second attempt.

West Ham's defense was breached with ease and Haaland somehow sent a free header wide shortly after his opening goal.

The Dutchman did get on the scoresheet shortly before the break, collecting Haaland's pass before jinking forward and firing a finish into the roof of the net.

In the second half, the London side tried to claw something back but Jarrod Bowen could only find the side netting and dragged another shot wide.

Haaland's second goal sealed a miserable Christmas for the visitors, who are stuck inside the bottom three.

Manchester City Analysis: A Dominant Display

It marked City's seventh straight win in every competition and Pep Guardiola's side are starting to put together the kind of run that often leads to trophies.

Haaland's early goal and 69th-minute strike extended an astonishing season where he has notched 19 in the Premier League.

Once Reijnders thumped home the second, the outcome was never in doubt as City extended their remarkable unbeaten run against sides in the drop zone.

Alphonse Areola denied two City players late on, but City's comfortable win means they have not lost against West Ham in two decades of league meetings.

Hammers' Troubles: A Miserable Christmas

For the West Ham fans, any hope of a shock triumph was extinguished within five minutes of the start.

The team have failed to see a new managerial bounce, with only two victories and now winless in their last six league games.

Consequently, they sit in 18th place, three points adrift, with the gap potentially widening as other teams have games in hand.

Aside from a couple of opportunities for their winger and a well-struck free-kick, they created minimal trouble for the City keeper.

Historically, West Ham have survived relegation when not bottom at Christmas, providing a glimmer of hope for this season.

Upcoming Fixtures

Pep Guardiola's men: The side enjoy a week off before returning to action with a visit to Nottingham Forest.

West Ham United: They host Fulham in London on the identical date.