Erling Haaland Scores Twice as City Triumph to Go to the Summit.

Erling Haaland scored twice to help Manchester City defeat struggling West Ham United for a fifth consecutive Premier League win.

This result sent them top of the table, a single point ahead of Arsenal, who can reclaim top spot later on Saturday.

The visiting team, under Nuno Espirito Santo, needed a strong opening but found themselves behind inside five minutes when Haaland converted at the second time of asking.

The Hammers was breached all too easily and Haaland unbelievably sent a free header wide soon after his opening goal.

The Dutchman doubled the lead seven minutes before half-time, taking Haaland's pass before jinking forward and hammering a finish into the top corner.

After the interval, the London side sought a consolation however their forward could only find the side netting and dragged another shot wide.

The striker's brace then ensured a joyless festive period for the Hammers, as they remain anchored inside the relegation zone.

Manchester City Analysis: A Dominant Display

It marked City's seventh straight win in all competitions and the team are starting to put together the kind of run that often leads to major silverware.

Haaland's early goal and second-half finish extended an astonishing campaign where he has scored 19 in the Premier League.

Once Reijnders slammed in the second, the outcome seemed certain as City stretched their impressive unbeaten run against sides in the drop zone.

The goalkeeper saved from two City players late on, yet City's comfortable win means they have not lost against West Ham in two decades of league meetings.

Hammers' Troubles: Festive Struggles

The traveling support, all optimism of a surprise result was extinguished almost immediately of kick-off.

Nuno's side have failed to see a new managerial bounce, with only two victories and now without a victory in their last six league games.

Consequently, they sit in 18th place, three points from safety, with the deficit could grow as rivals have fixtures remaining.

Aside from a couple of opportunities for Jarrod Bowen and a well-struck free-kick, they offered little trouble for the opposition goalkeeper.

In the past, West Ham have avoided the drop when outside the bottom place at Christmas, providing a glimmer of hope for the current campaign.

What's Next?

Manchester City: The side enjoy a week off before returning to action with a visit to Nottingham Forest.

West Ham United: The Hammers host Fulham in London on the same day.