Gabriel fires warning to Man City and Erling Haaland following controversial celebration
Arsenal defender Gabriel has issued a warning to Manchester City and Erling Haaland following a heated moment in their 2-2 draw at the Etihad. In the aftermath of John Stones’ 98th-minute equalizer, Haaland threw the ball at Gabriel’s head in frustration, though Gabriel claimed he didn’t notice it at the time.
Speaking to TNT Sports Brasil, Gabriel downplayed the incident but acknowledged the intensity of the match. He stated, “It’s a battle, a war, so it’s normal to have provocative acts in football.” Gabriel also added that Arsenal will be ready for the return fixture at the Emirates Stadium in February 2025, where they will look to respond on home turf.
Despite the clash, Haaland is not thought to be facing any further action. Elsewhere, City are dealing with the news that midfielder Rodri is not expected to play again this season having sustained an ACL injury in that game. The return meeting between these Premier League title contenders should be just as tasty.
The rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester City promises to intensify if all goes to plan in their next Premier League fixture, set for February 2025 at the Emirates Stadium. Drama was in no short supply during the 2-2 draw at the Etihad, with Leandro Trossard’s contentious red card and John Stones’ stoppage-time equaliser saving City from defeat. Judging by Gabriel’s comments about Erling Haaland and co. ahead of that game, Arsenal aren’t about to back down.
Haaland’s frustration after Stones’ equalizer, leading to him throwing the ball at Gabriel’s head, was viewed as an aspect of the edge inside which the game was being played. Yet Gabriel’s measured response after the game, reflects his clubs approach despite all the mindgames and scraps they might have to deal with, Arsenal are here for no other reason than to be about their business.
This rivalry has spilled over into the Premier League title race as well, with Arsenal and City both vying for top spot. Arsenal have steadily improved under Mikel Arteta, and their performance in holding out against a City side that were down to 10 men for much of the second half demonstrated an obduracy they will need in abundance in the title run-in. The Gabriel versus Haaland incident also underscored the needle between both clubs, so Saturday’s game at the Emirates should not be missed.
The injury crisis Manchester City currently have, including the lose of Rodri, could affect their form going into the next match against Arsenal. Arsenal will look to take advantage of that and put right their missed opportunity at the Etihad.
