The feud between Erling Haaland and Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly appears far from over, with the Manchester City striker enjoying the youngster’s misfortune after his red card in Arsenal’s 1-0 defeat to West Ham.
Lewis-Skelly was introduced as a substitute in the second half but was sent off in the 73rd minute for a reckless challenge on Mohammed Kudus. Initially shown a yellow card, the decision was upgraded to red following a VAR review, reducing the Gunners to 10 men.
Haaland and Lewis-Skelly have shared a tense history dating back to their clash in September, when the Norwegian striker was caught on camera shouting “Who the f**k are you?” at the Arsenal teenager during a heated 2-2 draw.
Lewis-Skelly had his moment of revenge earlier this month, scoring a stunning goal in Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 victory over City and celebrating with Haaland’s trademark meditation pose. However, it seems Haaland wasn’t about to let that slide.
Following Lewis-Skelly’s sending off, West Ham fans were spotted outside the Emirates Stadium mimicking Haaland’s celebration in mockery of the Arsenal youngster. The City striker appeared to approve, liking a post featuring the images on social media.
The defeat dealt a serious blow to Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes, leaving manager Mikel Arteta frustrated with the officiating. However, Premier League legend Alan Shearer backed the decision, insisting VAR made the right call.
“It was the correct decision,” Shearer said on Match of the Day. “Lewis-Skelly got caught on the ball, and if Kudus had won it cleanly, he had a free shot at goal. The referee needed VAR to intervene, but eventually, they got it right. No doubt it was a red card.”