Photo credit; GETTY IMAGES

Erling Haaland told Mikel Arteta to stay humble after a 2-2 draw in September. Gabriel celebrated in Haaland’s face after Arsenal’s first goal in Sunday’s 5-1 win.

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes made headlines in a heated Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium by laughing in the face of Manchester City striker Erling Haaland after Arsenal scored in the first minute of the game. The moment has reignited the fiery rivalry between the two players and added extra spice to an already intense encounter.

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The match began with a bang as Arsenal took the lead within the second minute through Martin Odegaard’s composed finish. As the ball hit the back of the net, Gabriel couldn’t resist the opportunity to celebrate right in front of Haaland, laughing and taunting the City star. This was a direct response to Haaland’s earlier comments in September, where he told Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta to “stay humble” after a 2-2 draw between the two sides.

Gabriel’s actions were met with cheers from the home crowd, who appreciated the defender’s cheeky response. The celebration highlighted the ongoing tension between the two players, stemming from their previous clash in September when Haaland threw the ball at Gabriel’s head following a late equalizer by John Stones.

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Despite Haaland’s goal later in the game, which briefly leveled the score at 1-1, Arsenal’s resilience and determination saw them secure a 5-1 victory. The result moves Arsenal within six points of league leaders Liverpool, keeping their title hopes alive.

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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)

Gabriel’s bold celebration has certainly added fuel to the rivalry, and it will be interesting to see how Haaland and City respond in future encounters. The match was a testament to Arsenal’s strength and the fiery spirit of their players, who are not afraid to stand up to their title rivals.