Erling Haaland has put himself at the risk of suspension or a fine for his antics in the aftermath of Man City’s 3-3 draw with Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League
Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and Mateo Kovacic react after referee Simon Hooper stops play during the Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur
Erling Haaland faces a fine and even a potential suspension for his reaction to referee Simon Hooper’s mistake during Manchester City’s 3-3 draw with Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Hooper decided to bring play back for a foul despite City winger Jack Grealish being through on goal in the last minute having initially played advantage.
Had play been allowed to continue, Grealish would have been through on goal and in a prime position to snatch three points at the death for Pep Guardiola’s side. When Hooper stopped play, City’s stars were furious and surrounded Hooper to air their grievances.
Haaland and team-mate Mateo Kovacic were among those to make their feelings known and the former made his feelings crystal clear online, re-posting a clip of the incident with the caption ‘Wtf’ on X, formerly Twitter. Now, Haaland could be hit with a sanction by the Football Association for his actions on the pitch as well as off them.
It could see another twist in the Premier League title race with Arsenal, Liverpool and City all set to feel the repercussions of any action. At football.london, we have debated what ought to happen to Haaland.
Kieran Horn
Consistency is so crucially important in football and based on that the FA have an easy decision to make. Erling Haaland’s actions, while initially understandable given the decision, became embarrassing as he stormed off the pitch like a child at the full-time whistle of Tottenham’s draw with Manchester City.
His conduct on the pitch is worthy of a substantial fine and based on decisions already made this season, he should also serve a one-match suspension. Virgil van Dijk was dealt that punishment for “abusive and insulting” words and if that is the case, while it wasn’t clear what Haaland said, it was rather obvious expletives were aimed in the direction of the officials.
Whether the huge call is made in time for the upcoming clash against Aston Villa is unknown, but given how it impacted Liverpool immediately the same fate should come Haaland’s way and he should therefore join Rodri and Jack Grealish in being suspended for Wednesday’s game at Villa Park.
Richard Cusack
Haaland’s conduct in the aftermath of Hooper’s mistake left a lot to be desired, but there are mitigations. World class athletes play on the edge to give them every chance to be successful in the high-stakes environment of the Premier League. Haaland is one of those, a superb striker who revs himself up for games ready to stick it to his opposition.