The battles between Gabriel Magalhaes and Erling Haaland have become somewhat of a talking point in the lead-up and during Manchester City and Arsenal’s recent seasons.
During City’s 2-2 against the Gunners last season, the Norwegian even threw the ball at the Brazilian centre-back’s head after John Stones’ last-gasp equaliser.
Gabriel did not mind Haaland’s antics and accepted the heated nature of such a high-profile clash.
Haaland defended throwing the ball at Gabriel as the star striker felt there was no need for him to “regret” his actions.
Manchester City FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League
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Gabriel Magalhaes says Erling Haaland can be tamed if he doesn’t get the ball
But aside from the physical nature of both players’ showdowns, what is also enthralling to witness is two stalwarts of the game go toe-to-toe with each other.
Erling Haaland is arguably the best striker in the Premier League while Gabriel has a case for being the division’s standout centre-back.
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The Arsenal defender holds Haaland in high esteem, telling Podpah why he is such a top player: “He’s blurry, he’s awesome, you blink and he’s celebrating. He’s really fast and really strong. He’s really him. He’s taller than me and he’s really strong.”
However, Gabriel believes that Haaland can be tamed, provided defenders stop him from getting the ball.
“His stride, when he takes the ball, he has a strong kick too, the best thing to do is to let him control the ball, then there’s not as much danger.”
Haaland and Gabriel’s record against each other
In seven appearances, Haaland has amassed four goals and two assists against Gabriel.
ERLING HAALAND’S RECORD VS GABRIEL MAGALHAES
APPEARANCES 7
GOALS 4
ASSISTS 2
WINS 3
DRAWS 2
LOSSES 2
However, in some of these fixtures, the former Lille colossus has come out on top against the Manchester City striker as well.
Next season, Haaland will be hoping to get the better of Gabriel, especially bearing in mind Arsenal’s 5-1 battering of Manchester City.