Erling Haaland makes his true feelings clear over heated on-field clash with Arsenal star Gabriel

Kyle Bonn

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Erling Haaland makes his true feelings clear over heated on-field clash with Arsenal star Gabriel image

When it comes to the brewing rivalry between Man City and Arsenal, Erling Haaland isn't shy about his distaste for their Premier League title challengers.

During the early-season clash between the two sides at the Etihad last month which saw the two teams finish level after a thrilling finish, Haaland found himself embroiled in an on-field scuffle with Arsenal defender Gabriel.

Many Man City players, both during and after the match, had made clear their frustration at 10-man Arsenal's perceived time-wasting tactics throughout the second half. When that frustration boiled over for the Norwegian, he was spotted firing the ball at Gabriel's head, but the action failed to reach the threshold of violent conduct for both VAR referee John Brooks or the FA disciplinary panel.

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Having escaped the situation unpunished, Haaland was far from apologetic for his actions. Having been recently named captain of his national team, the Man City star was asked whether that kind of behavior was fit for a player in such a leadership role. "It was in the heat of the moment," Haaland said with a dismissive look on his face, "and a lot of stuff happened in that game. Things that happen on the football pitch stay there, and that's how it is."

When the reporter followed up to ask if he regretted the incident, Haaland replied flatly, "I don't regret much in life."

The clash with Gabriel was far from Haaland's only heated exchange with an Arsenal player, having been seen calling Gabriel Jesus a "clown" after the final whistle, and turned to tell Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to "stay humble."

Unless they are drawn together in any knockout tournament action beforehand, the next scheduled match between the two sides will be their Premier League reverse fixtures on February 1, when plenty of attention will be on the Man City forward for his emotional state throughout the event.

Kyle Bonn

Kyle Bonn Photo

Kyle Bonn, is a Syracuse University broadcast journalism graduate with over a decade of experience covering soccer globally. Kyle specializes in soccer tactics and betting, with a degree in data analytics. Kyle also does TV broadcasts for Wake Forest soccer, and has had previous stops with NBC Soccer and IMG College. When not covering the game, he has long enjoyed loyalty to the New York Giants, Yankees, and Fulham. Kyle enjoys playing racquetball and video games when not watching or covering sports.