Erling Haaland has issued a stark warning to Premier League title contenders Arsenal, declaring: "I'm back - and ready to attack!"

The formidable Norwegian striker marked his return to scoring ways with a goal against Nottingham Forest, ensuring Manchester City remain hot on the heels of league leaders Arsenal. Despite a less than convincing victory at the City Ground, City are just one point adrift of Arsenal, with a game in hand that could prove pivotal in the title race.

After netting his 21st goal of the season within minutes of coming off the bench, Haaland appeared eager for the final stretch of the league season. "This is the most exciting time to be a footballer," the striker said.

He added: "It doesn't matter who scores – the most important thing is to win. I came on and tried to finish the game and that's exactly what I did.

"It's nice – exactly like last season. This is the maybe the most exciting time to be a footballer. There's not many who can relate but this is why I play football – the feeling before the game, you're a bit nervous. This is fantastic and it's why I love football because of these feelings.

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"So many of these guys have done it before and it's about keeping the head calm and not wanting too much. We relax, smile and enjoy our time then we focus on the next game."‌

Despite being sidelined for 10 games due to injury around the festive period and dealing with a muscle issue earlier this month, Haaland has impressively netted 32 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions this season. While the sting of Champions League elimination at the hands of Real Madrid lingers, Haaland says he is now fit and ready for the remainder of the campaign.

"I'm ready – I had a bit of a problem and it's not nice to bounce back when we went out to [Real] Madrid in the Champions League," he said. "It's been scratching inside of me to get back and now I'm back and feeling good. I'm ready to attack the last five finals."