The match at the Etihad stadium on 19/4 saw a fierce confrontation between Gabriel and Haaland. One of the clashes tore the Norwegian striker's shirt.

Erling Haaland clashed heads with Gabriel Magalhaes during Man City's 2-1 victory over Arsenal in round 33 of the Premier League at the Etihad stadium, Manchester, England on 19/4. *Photo: Reuters*

Tension between the two players peaked after the home striker's push, leading to a heated exchange in the middle of the pitch in the 83rd minute. Gabriel reacted sharply, making a head-butt motion towards Haaland, igniting a scuffle. After gaining control, referee Anthony Taylor decided to issue a yellow card to both.

"I think my shirt was pulled quite a bit. I didn't get a foul, that's how the Premier League is now", Haaland said after the match. "It was like wrestling. A lot of duels, a lot of scratches. Sometimes my girlfriend isn't happy to see that, it doesn't look too good. But that's the reality".

Haaland and his girlfriend, Isabel Johansen, have been dating since the Norwegian striker played for Dortmund. The two welcomed their first son in 12/2024, and may soon get married.

Regarding the controversial situation where Gabriel avoided a red card, Haaland believes that if he had fallen, his opponent might have been sent off. However, he refused to do so, following the teachings of his father, former player Alfie Haaland.

"I think if I had fallen to the ground, which I would never do unless genuinely attacked, it probably would have been a red card", the 25-year-old striker stated. "Anyway, it's over now, and I won't try to dramatize it. The only thing is I got a yellow card and don't understand why, he was the one who came at my face first. But that's football".

Haaland often engages in fierce contests with Gabriel whenever Man City faces Arsenal. In the 2024-2025 Premier League season, Haaland also avoided a red card incident for throwing the ball at the Arsenal defender's head.

Erling Haaland (in blue) scored the decisive goal. *Photo: PA*

At the Etihad stadium on 19/4, despite close marking from Gabriel, Haaland still shined with the decisive 2-1 winning goal. In the 65th minute, from a cross by Nico O'Reilly, the Norwegian striker outmuscled Gabriel to finish with his left foot past David Raya.

With this victory, Man City reduced the gap with Arsenal to three points and have played one fewer match. If they defeat Burnley in an early match of round 34 on 22/4, the Manchester club will claim the top spot.

"Every match now is a final. Immediately after leaving here, we have to prepare for Burnley. That match is just as important as this one. We need to focus, stay humble, and look forward to the next game", Haaland emphasized.

Hong Duy (via Telegraph)