Manchester City swept to the top of the Premier League table with a commanding 4-1 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, a result that put a dampener on Pierre Sage's debut as Palace manager.

Erling Haaland wore a black armband in tribute to the late Norwegian King Harald V, whose passing was announced earlier on Friday, and marked the occasion by heading City in front in the 17th minute. The Norwegian striker then returned to seal the victory with a second goal in the 84th minute.

Cherki steals the show

Enzo Maresca made only one alteration from City's season-opening win over Bournemouth, handing Rayan Cherki a starting berth in place of Rico Lewis — a decision that proved inspired.

Cherki ignited a breathtaking six-minute burst after the break, breaking the deadlock in the 54th minute to put City firmly in control. Moments later, Gianluigi Donnarumma turned a Yeremy Pino free-kick into his own net to extend the lead further.

Palace had barely processed that blow when Cherki struck again, finding the bottom corner three minutes later to complete his brace and effectively end the contest.

Two from two for Maresca

Haaland's late second rounded off a dominant display, giving Maresca back-to-back victories in his first two Premier League matches in charge of Manchester City. The result sends City to the summit of the early standings, with Palace left to regroup after a chastening home defeat.