Erling Haaland is watching his mates play hopscotch.
They’re taking turns to jump on each hand-drawn,
chalk number and cheering each other on.
Phil Foden glides smoothly across the course.
Jérémy Doku adds a fair few unnecessarily
complex foot moves but gets across the line.
Kevin De Bruyne does it with his eyes closed.
Kyle Walker ploughs his way through
at lightening speed. Erling Haaland holds my hand
for his first go, and his second, and his third.
By his fourth attempt I am on the sidelines
watching the best in the world.

Carl Burkitt 2024