Erling Haaland has responded to Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly after the teenager mimicked his celebration during the Gunners’ 5–1 win over Manchester City last season.
The rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester City has grown increasingly tense in recent seasons — and it now includes a cheeky moment of revenge from one of the Premier League’s rising stars.
In a recent interview with Time Magazine, Erling Haaland addressed Myles Lewis-Skelly’s now-viral celebration during Arsenal’s 5–1 thrashing of City last term — a match in which the teenage midfielder scored and mimicked the Norwegian’s iconic stance.
Haaland: “They Got Me!”
Haaland has long been a focal point of the Arsenal–City narrative. He’s scored four goals and provided two assists in eight games against the Gunners, but not without drama — from confrontations with Mikel Arteta to on-pitch clashes with Arsenal defenders.
Speaking to Time, Haaland reflected on the infamous “stay humble” jibe he made to Arteta last year — and admitted the Gunners had earned their moment.
“They won the game 5–1. So yeah, they got me!” “If [Lewis-Skelly] wanted to use that moment to mock me, that’s fair enough for him. Whatever he wants to do, he can do.” — Erling Haaland, Time Magazine
Haaland’s mature response has drawn praise — especially considering the history of tension in this fixture.
How Lewis-Skelly Mocked Haaland — And Why It Mattered
Back in 2024, Haaland had a run-in with Lewis-Skelly at the Etihad, reportedly asking the teenager “Who are you?” in a post-match exchange. Months later, the Arsenal academy graduate answered on the pitch — scoring in a statement win and copying Haaland’s celebration in front of the home fans.
The moment went viral and symbolised Arsenal’s recent momentum in this rivalry. Arteta’s side are now unbeaten in their last five games against City in all competitions.
Haaland’s Running Battles with Arsenal’s Backline
While Lewis-Skelly grabbed the headlines, Haaland also has a fierce personal battle with Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba.
In recent clashes, Haaland and Gabriel have exchanged shoves, words, and even the ball to the head — but always shake hands at full-time. Saliba, meanwhile, is one of the few defenders who’s consistently matched Haaland physically.
That mutual respect — and high-level competition — has become a highlight of every Arsenal–City meeting.
Haaland vs Arsenal – Head-to-Head Stats
| Stat | Vs Arsenal |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 8 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Wins | 3 |
| Losses | 4 |
Analyst Verdict
This rivalry has everything — elite football, title pressure, and now a generational subplot between a 24-year-old global star and a teenage prodigy from Hale End. Haaland’s calm reply shows maturity, but there’s no doubt he’ll have Lewis-Skelly circled in red the next time these two sides meet.
The Premier League needs stories like this — passion, edge, and a reminder that reputations mean nothing if you don’t deliver.
Key Takeaways
- Erling Haaland has responded to Lewis-Skelly’s mocking celebration with class
- The Arsenal teen copied Haaland’s pose after scoring in a 5–1 win over City
- Haaland admits “they got me” and calls “stay humble” an important life lesson
- Haaland has a growing rivalry with Gabriel and Saliba
- Arsenal are unbeaten in five games vs Man City in all competitions
What’s Next for Arsenal vs Man City?
Arsenal will look to extend their unbeaten run over City when the two sides meet in Matchweek 6 of the 2025/26 campaign. With both teams in the Champions League again, a possible European clash also looms later this season.
And yes — all eyes will be on Haaland and Lewis-Skelly when they share the same pitch again.
Will Haaland fire back on the pitch — or will Lewis-Skelly rise again?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
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By Adem 1 Aug 2025 09:12
its going to be great season! Haaland wasn't at his best last season, lets see how things go the next one with Arsenal adding a great striker in Gyokeres
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