A magnificent solo effort from Rayan Cherki had us ahead after 16 minutes, before the Gunners levelled less than two minutes later through Kai Havertz.
Both sides struck the woodwork twice in an entertaining game, with Cherki and Haaland rattling the post for City, and Eberechi Eze and Gabriel striking the woodwork for the visitors.
Haaland had the final say at a jubilant Etihad Stadium, sweeping in a 65th minute winner to put us within touching distance of the Gunners in the title race.
“Yeah very big [win],” began Bernardo in his interview after the game.
“It puts us in a position that if we win the game in hand we’re on the same points.
“If you look two weeks ago this didn’t look very likely. A tough game, a good game and we’re happy that we can be on the same points.
“I thought we were very good until we made the mistake and we changed the mood a bit after the 30th minute. The second half was tough, it looked like we were in control, we had more possession, but they were always dangerous, they had two big chances.
“These big games are like this, the small margins make the difference. Overall we played a good game. We were there, our fans were there, so I’m really proud.
“It’s a long season. A lot of small details didn’t go our way earlier this season. Unlucky plays that we had, we missed a lot of chances and today things went our way. I’m really happy.”
GALLERY: CHERKI AND HAALAND SINK GUNNERS!
The midfielder announced last Thursday that he will be leaving City at the end of this season, following a wonderful nine-year spell, winning 19 major trophies so far.
The skipper, along with pouring plenty of praise on Haaland, spoke about his ambition to add to his 19 major honours at City so far, with the Blues still fighting for silverware in the FA Cup and Premier League.
“I made the decision [to leave] a long time ago so all season it’s been emotional for me because I knew my decision,” he said.
“I just want to finish on a good end with trophies and I’m doing my best for this Club until the end.”
