Enzo Fernández has lavished praise on Erling Haaland, calling his Manchester City teammate "an animal, a beast" after the pair combined to devastating effect in City's 2-0 UEFA Champions League victory over Porto at the Estádio do Dragão.

The Argentine midfielder provided the assist for Haaland's opener in the 47th minute, with the Norwegian striker going on to complete a second-half brace — continuing what has been a dominant start to his season.

Enzo's verdict on Haaland

Speaking to Prime Video Sport UK after the match, Fernández was effusive in his admiration. "Haaland is an animal, a beast," he said. "Every time I'm on the pitch I will look for him. Hopefully I can give him more assists."

Fernández also made clear that his appreciation extends beyond the football pitch. "Haaland is not just a great player but an amazing human being as well and he welcomed me here and has helped me," he added.

The midfielder — who joined Manchester City on loan from Chelsea — was equally warm about the reception he has received at the club as a whole. "I'm so happy, they welcomed me from the first minute when I walked into the door. Not just brilliant players but they're amazing human beings and they've all been so kind to me," he said.

Fernández also expressed his delight at the supporters' response. "The fans have been absolutely brilliant and it is a new step in my career. I'm so excited to get going," he said.

Haaland's place in Champions League history

The 2-0 victory was Fernández's first UEFA Champions League appearance for Manchester City, marking an important milestone in his time with the club.

For Haaland, the brace added to a remarkable record: he has now scored 59 goals in 59 UEFA Champions League matches, placing him seventh on the all-time scoring list for the competition.