Manchester City has cleared striker Erling Haaland of any wrongdoing following an investigation into an incident involving the club's mascot, Moonbeam. The controversy arose after a temporary staff member claimed she suffered a concussion and whiplash due to a playful encounter with the star player before a match.
The incident took place on October 26, 2024, prior to Manchester City’s Premier League match against Southampton. According to reports from The Sun and other outlets, the woman, who wishes to remain anonymous, alleged that she felt two blows to the back of her head while posing for a photograph with Haaland. Initially, she thought she had been struck by a stray football, but later realized that Haaland had playfully knocked her on the head before leaning on it.
After the encounter, the woman reported feeling unwell, experiencing vomiting and neck pain. City’s first-team doctor advised her to seek medical attention, leading to a visit to Salford Royal Hospital. Although A&E notes confirmed her symptoms, a CT scan revealed no damage. Following this, she lodged a complaint with Greater Manchester Police, which concluded that Haaland had not acted with malice.
In response to the allegations, Manchester City conducted its own internal investigation, reviewing CCTV footage of the incident. A club spokesperson stated, "Manchester City refute the complaint that was made in this regard. The Club fully investigated and found that none of the evidence, including video footage, backed up the claim that an injury was sustained in the manner alleged. We’re also aware a complaint was made to Greater Manchester Police and no further action was taken by them either." The footage reportedly showed Haaland performing a "gentle touch on the back or head" of the mascot, contradicting her claims of a forceful impact.
Despite the club's findings, the woman accused Manchester City of covering up the incident. She expressed her frustration, stating, "I’m sure Erling would have apologized to me if they had given him the chance. But they just wanted to sweep it under the carpet." After the incident, she returned to her role in the club's ticket office but was required to reapply for her position. Ultimately, she was informed in December that her contract would not be renewed.
Haaland, meanwhile, has continued to excel on the pitch, scoring 29 goals in all competitions this season. Despite the off-field controversy, his performance remains a bright spot for Manchester City, who are currently facing challenges in their campaign.
This incident has raised questions about the treatment of staff within professional sports organizations and how such allegations are handled. As the situation unfolds, it highlights the complexities of interactions between players and staff, especially in high-pressure environments like professional football.
As the dust settles on this peculiar episode, both Haaland and Manchester City are looking to focus on their performance in the ongoing season, hoping to put the matter behind them as they aim for success on the field.
