Still on the blockbuster game between Manchester City and Arsenal that was filled with so much controversy. Erling Haaland who scored in the game has taken centre stage this time around for his actions after the late goal in the game.
Manchester City fans have been accused of being quiet in the Etihad, especially in big games. Their fans will certainly need to step up and increase the steam as they head to the ‘serious’ part of the season. The purchase of Manchester City tickets from an online resale store will be much needed.
The thrilling Premier League encounter took an ugly turn after the late equaliser from Manchester City, and Wright didn’t hold back his criticism of Haaland, who was quite active during the controversy, labelling one of his actions as a ‘coward’s move.’
Fireworks all across the Etihad & the reaction from fans
The Premier League has seen some fiery clashes, and Manchester City’s recent showdown with Arsenal was no different. It was a game packed with energy, determination, and, as it turns out, a fair amount of controversy. With emotions running high, John Stones scored a last-minute equaliser for City in the eighth minute of added time, tying the game at 1-1. But instead of the celebrations being the main talking point, something else grabbed the spotlight.
In the heat of the moment, Erling Haaland threw the ball at Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes’s head. Gabriel had his back turned and did not see it coming. This action quickly turned into pandemonium with Arsenal fans and pundits alike condemning Haaland’s behaviour. However, it isIan Wright’s strong words that have caught our attention.
Ian Wright who is a former Arsenal legend didn’t mince words when he took to social media to criticise Haaland. In a video posted on his Instagram page, Wright expressed his frustration and disappointment at what he saw as unsportsmanlike behaviour.
“You know what proper boiled me up,” Wright began, his voice clearly showing his frustration. “It was Haaland’s coward’s move. Throwing the ball at Gaby’s head when he wasn’t looking when Gaby’s back was turned. That is a real coward’s move. I thought you were bigger than that, Haaland.”
One question on everyone’s mind is why Haaland reacted the way he did. Some might say that league matches, especially those with such high stakes, can bring out the worst in players. When emotions are running high, decisions can be made in the heat of the moment that players later regret.
Erling Haaland has become one of the biggest names in world football in the past few years, especially for his incredible goal-scoring records. But with great talent comes great responsibility. Players at his level are expected to be role models in every way.
This incident has put Haaland under a negative kind of spotlight, one that questions his temperament rather than his footballing ability. For someone who is often seen as calm and composed, this act of frustration has left many wondering if he can handle the pressure that comes with being one of the sport’s biggest players.
In this case, it seems Haaland’s frustration boiled over. Arsenal had been very resilient and difficult opponents throughout the game, and Gabriel had been particularly effective in neutralising some of Haaland’s attacking moves. When Stones scored that last-minute equaliser, it was likely a mix of relief and adrenaline that got the better of Haaland, leading him to lash out in frustration.
Furthermore, it did not take long for fans and supporters to weigh in on the incident. Arsenal supporters were quick to rally behind Gabriel, with many agreeing with Ian Wright’s assessment of Haaland’s actions. The social media space was flooded with comments calling Haaland’s behaviour disrespectful and unsportsmanlike.
One Arsenal fan tweeted, “Gabriel was a rock at the back, and Haaland couldn’t handle it. The ball throw was a cheap shot and shows poor character.”
Meanwhile, City fans took a more defensive stance, suggesting that Haaland was simply caught up in the heat of the moment. “It was just frustration,” one City supporter tweeted. “Haaland is a top professional, and we all make mistakes.”
Man City v Arsenal game rekindling epic Premier League memories
For longtime Premier League fans, the scenes at the Etihad brought back memories of some of the most fiery matches from years gone by. Arsenal, in particular, has been involved in many infamous clashes, with some of the most memorable taking place at Old Trafford against Manchester United.
Ian Wright, who was a central figure in many of those battles during his playing days, knows what it is like to be caught up in the intensity of a heated match. Perhaps that is why he felt so strongly about Haaland’s actions. Having been there himself, Wright likely understands the importance of being respectful even in the heat of the game.
While the game ended with a point shared between the two sides, the fallout from this incident is likely to continue. Haaland may need to address the situation publicly, especially given the backlash from fans and pundits. Whether he chooses to apologise or explain his actions will be closely watched.
As for Arsenal, they will be looking to move on from the controversy and focus on their performance. Gabriel, who was on the receiving end of Haaland’s frustration, has yet to comment publicly on the incident. The Gunners who recently trashed Bolton wanderers in the EFL cup will look to continue in that spirit when they host Leicester City on Saturday in the Premier League.
Conclusion
As we continue to offer our post game thoughts on the game. Both Arsenal and Manchester City will look ahead to their next challenges. The return leg at the Emirates will be one to look forward to. That game could have even more fireworks given that Haaland also had some words for Mikel Arteta too. That could even be a bigger trigger than Gabriel’s case.