Gabriel Magalhaes reacts to Erling Haaland throwing the ball at his head during Man City vs Arsenal
Erling Haaland and Gabriel Magalhaes were at each other’s throats once again as Manchester City and Arsenal arguably played out the best game of the season so far during their 2-2 draw.
It seems like Haaland and Gabriel have developed somewhat of a rivalry on the pitch.
During Manchester City’s 0-0 draw against Arsenal last season as well, the pair were arguing after the contest.
It took Pep Guardiola to become the peacemaker for Haaland and Gabriel to share an embrace soon after and go their separate ways — in a video shared by Optus Sport.
In every rivalry across football history, there always seems to be some bite between certain players.
For instance, Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira’s standoffs during Arsenal and Manchester United’s rivalry is the stuff of legends.
Gabriel shares his honest verdict on Haaland antics after John Stones’ goal
After John Stones’ last-gasp leveller, Haaland was seen throwing the ball at Gabriel’s head before running off to celebrate with his teammates.
The Brazilian centre-back pulled up his shirt and covered his face in agony after the goal had been scored.
The £375,000-a-week striker looked like he was set to throw the ball in Jakub Kiwior’s direction but he proceeded to aim for the former Lille defender.
The moment encapsulated the seemingly growing level of animosity between both clubs.
Haaland and Gabriel Jesus also argued in the aftermath of the contest.
However, Gabriel has admitted that he does not remember the incident.
The 26-year-old was quoted stating by The Mirror journalist John Cross: “No, I don’t remember it. I don’t remember it. It’s normal. But anyway, congratulations to the team for the draw.”
“As I said, battle, war, provocation is normal in football and it is part of the game. It’s over now. Now we are waiting for them at our ground.”
Arsenal star Gabriel has sent Emirates warning to Manchester City
Perhaps Gabriel felt that the incident was over and done with and now his focus is on moving forward after Sunday’s affair.
But the highly-rated defender did state that Arsenal are “waiting” to face Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium.
Both teams could head-to-head with each other in February.
After how fiery their latest outing was, Manchester City could be set for a hostile atmosphere in North London.
The Sky Blues will be hoping that the clash is one where they remain in serious contention to win the Premier League title as Rodri’s injury has emerged as a massive blow for them.
Pep Guardiola and his players will embrace the challenge upon coming across Gabriel’s statement.
