The FA has given an explanation for why they decided against issuing a ban to Erling Haaland for his ball-throwing incident with Gabriel Magalhaes of Arsenal following John Stones’ thrilling late equaliser. During the crucial match on Sunday, September 22, the Manchester City talisman stole the show as he scored his 100th goal for the Premier League champions.
The Norwegian attacker was involved in a tough battle with Gabriel and William Saliba of Arsenal. But the Gunners’ defence was the one that came dangerously close to winning at the Etihad Stadium before Stones’ equaliser in the 98th minute dashed their dreams.
After the England defender’s goal, Gabriel covered his face with his shirt, and in the next furious moments, Haaland grabbed the ball from David Raya’s net and threw it at Gabriel’s back of the head. Haaland’s bold action stoked tensions, resulting in a fight among the players.
Even after the final whistle, Haaland gave Mikel Arteta a sharp three-word warning, “Stay humble eh,” according to the Mirror, demonstrating that the tension was still present. The former City striker Gabriel Jesus, who is currently with Arsenal, responded to Haaland’s comment directed at his boss verbally, which led to an argument before the two were separated.
Notwithstanding rumours that Haaland would face consequences for his behaviour towards Gabriel in the past, the Football Association declared on Monday, September 23, that the 24-year-old will not face any disciplinary action. The FA was unable to step in because VAR official John Brooks had previously examined the Haaland incident and determined that the striker’s actions did not qualify as violent conduct.
Haaland was therefore not given a straight red card, and VAR is not allowed to recommend a booking. Furthermore, no disciplinary punishment was taken against City or Arsenal for their post-match antics.
The disciplinary panel of the Football Association concluded that there was no particular event during Sunday’s game, either on the field or on the sidelines, that called for additional action from the football authorities. With their point on Sunday, City maintained their lead over Liverpool in the Premier League, while Arsenal are now in fourth place, one point fewer than Aston Villa.