Erling Haaland just said the obvious Gabriel truth that not even Arsenal fans deny

Every Arsenal fan’s hopes were shattered as their side fell to title rivals Manchester City, but there was one defining moment that could just as easily have gone against them.

When the final whistle blew at the Etihad, Erling Haaland’s grin said it all, his winner had given his team a crucial edge and momentum in the title race in a tight game.

However, the Norwegian may also have handed Arsenal a lifeline. In a heated moment, he clashed head-to-head with Gabriel, an incident that could easily have resulted in a red card for violent conduct for the Brazilian defender.

Had Haaland gone to ground and made more of the contact, it likely would have resulted in a red card, given the clear head movement that resembled a headbutt. Instead, the lack of punishment may have handed Arsenal a lifeline in the title race, as their best defender avoided a three-match Premier League suspension.

In his post-match interview, the Premier League’s leading goalscorer claimed it is not in his nature to go down when not hurt or injured.

He said: "I think if I fell on the floor, which I will not do unless someone really attacks me, I think maybe it would be a red card, I'm not sure. But it is what it is. I will not fall on the floor as easy like this.”

The clash was the culmination of a physical battle that ran throughout the game, with Haaland repeatedly engaged by Gabriel and his defensive partner, William Saliba. The contest was more 50-50 than one-sided, but largely reflected how well the pair contained the striker, until a moment of space allowed him to strike for City’s second goal.

VAR Verdict against public opinion

The most surprising aspect was that the incident was referred to VAR for review. The Premier League Match Centre clarified the decision in an explanation on social media.

They said: "The referee's call of no red card was checked and confirmed by VAR - with the action from Gabriel deemed not to be excessively aggressive or violent."

Many pundits argued the decision was incorrect, with Alan Shearer, Roy Keane, and Gary Neville all insisting Gabriel was fortunate to avoid a red card, disputing that the action amounted to violent conduct.

Had he gone on to score moments later, it would have sparked outrage among Pep Guardiola and Manchester City, becoming a pivotal decision in the title race.

Now, Mr Magalhães is available to face Newcastle, Fulham and West Ham with a nod of gratitude towards Erling for his actions afterwards.

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