Erling Haaland Nets a Brace as City Claim Victory to Go Top.

Erling Haaland bagged a double to help Manchester City beat struggling West Ham United for a fifth consecutive Premier League victory.

This result propelled them to the league's summit, one point clear of Arsenal, a side that can reclaim top spot in their evening fixture.

The visiting team, managed by Nuno, were desperate for a strong opening however conceded early within the opening five when Haaland tucked home at the second time of asking.

West Ham's defense was breached all too easily and Haaland unbelievably missed a close-range header shortly after his opening goal.

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

After the interval, West Ham sought a consolation but Jarrod Bowen could only find the side netting and sent another effort off target.

The striker's brace then ensured a joyless festive period for the Hammers, as they remain stuck inside the bottom three.

Manchester City Analysis: A Dominant Display

This was City's seventh straight win in all competitions and the team are building the kind of run that typically ends with major silverware.

The Norwegian's opener and second-half finish extended an remarkable campaign where he has notched 19 in the Premier League.

Once Reijnders slammed in the second goal, the end result was never in doubt as City extended their remarkable unbeaten run against sides in the drop zone.

The goalkeeper saved from Phil Foden and Savinho 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 shock triumph was extinguished within five minutes of the start.

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 adrift, with the deficit potentially widening as other teams have games in hand.

Other than a few half-chances for Jarrod Bowen and a set-piece, they offered little threat for the City keeper.

Historically, West Ham have avoided the drop when not bottom at Christmas, offering a faint hope for this season.

What's Next?

Pep Guardiola's men: They have a break before returning to action with a visit to Nottingham Forest.

Nuno's team: They welcome Fulham in London on the identical date.