Lewis-Skelly and Gabriel Taunt Erling Haaland, Fueling Their Rivalry with the Man City Star

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Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly and Gabriel teased Erling Haaland during Sunday’s Premier League clash against Manchester City.

Arsenal’s young defender Myles Lewis-Skelly and center-back Gabriel Magalhaes made sure to send a message to Manchester City’s star striker Erling Haaland during their thrilling 5-1 victory at the Emirates Stadium.

The match was already intense, with Arsenal taking an early lead through Martin Odegaard’s second-minute goal. Gabriel immediately ran to Haaland and celebrated right in front of him, reigniting their rivalry from a previous encounter. This was a direct response to Haaland’s taunt during their 2-2 draw in September, where he told Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to “stay humble” and asked Lewis-Skelly, “Who are you?”.

Lewis-Skelly, who scored his first senior goal for Arsenal, made sure to rub salt into the wounds by mimicking Haaland’s signature ‘meditation pose’ celebration. The young defender’s cheeky response was met with cheers from the home crowd and added fuel to the already simmering rivalry.

gettyimages 2197259138 612x612 1 — LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 02: Myles Lewis-Skelly of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team’s third goal with teammates during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

gettyimages 2197263863 612x612 1 — LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 02: Erling Haaland of Manchester City is taunted by Gabriel of Arsenal after the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester City FC at Emirates Stadium on February 02, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Haaland, who had earlier equalized for City with a brilliant header, had a difficult afternoon overall. Despite his goal, he struggled to make an impact, completing only two passes and winning just one of his six duels. The Arsenal DJ even played Kendrick Lamar’s “Humble” track over the stadium speakers at full-time, further emphasizing the message to the City star.

The victory not only showcased Arsenal’s strength but also highlighted the determination and confidence of their young players. Lewis-Skelly’s celebration and Gabriel’s actions were clear statements of intent, showing that Arsenal is not afraid to stand up to their title rivals.