Haaland’s Emotional Outburst Justified, Says Guardiola
The City manager insists it was a rare lapse from a player who continually rises above persistent attempts by opponents to unsettle him. Haaland, the prolific City striker, was involved in a long-running battle with Arsenal defender Gabriel in the 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium, and tensions boiled over after John Stones’ stoppage-time equalizer.
Haaland threw the ball at Gabriel’s head, and there were further angry scenes after the final whistle. The Norwegian striker told Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to “stay humble” amid the fiery exchanges.
Guardiola Defends Haaland’s Reaction
“I’m surprised how he controls his emotions,” said Guardiola ahead of Sunday’s Premier League return encounter between the sides at the Emirates Stadium. “Do you know that in every action he’s being pulled and the referee plays on? How many times has it happened? He’s never complained. He behaves incredibly well.”
Guardiola believes Haaland was justified in his emotional reaction, stating that the defender “pushed him, hugged him and hacked him” throughout the match. “At the end, he’s a human being, he has to react,” the manager added.
The City boss also pointed out that Haaland has been the target of physical and provocative tactics from opponents, but he has remained largely composed. “We cannot blame Erling. It’s the defender that pushed Erling. All central defenders in the Premier League go against him. You know it’s going to happen,” Guardiola said.
Haaland opened the scoring for City in the September meeting, but Arsenal hit back to take the lead and looked like holding on, despite playing the second half with 10 men, until Stones had the final say late on. Guardiola was frustrated by Arsenal’s perceived “dark arts” tactics, but he acknowledged that the home team had success with their approach.
Overall, Guardiola’s defense of Haaland’s emotional outburst and his acknowledgment of the physical challenges the striker faces from opponents reflect the manager’s understanding of the pressures and provocation his star player has to deal with on the pitch.
