Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has called Erling Haaland’s actions a “coward’s move” after the Manchester City forward threw the ball at the back of Gabriel’s head following City’s late equaliser against Arsenal.
After John Stones’ goal, Haaland retrieved the ball from the net and threw it at Gabriel, who had his shirt over his head in frustration and was facing the other way.
Although the Video Assistant Referee reviewed the incident, it was not considered a red card offence, and no further action was taken.
The Football Association has confirmed that no additional action will be taken regarding any incidents during the 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium, including a heated exchange between players at the final whistle.
“The one thing that boiled me up properly was Haaland’s coward’s move,” Wright said in a video on Instagram.
“Throwing the ball at Gabi’s head when he’s not looking. When Gabi’s back’s turned to him. Real coward’s move. Gabi would look him in the eye, you know.
“That’s what bothered me more than anything else. I thought you [Haaland] were bigger than that.”
Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori scored to overturn Erling Haaland’s early opener at the Etihad Stadium, but Arsenal’s momentum took a hit when Leandro Trossard was sent off just before halftime.
Despite being down to 10 men, Mikel Arteta’s side defended resolutely in the second half, only to be denied a win when John Stones netted an equaliser in the eighth minute of stoppage time.
The draw leaves Manchester City one point ahead at the top of the Premier League, with Arsenal sitting two points behind in fourth place.