On February 2, 2025, British journalist Piers Morgan took to talkSPORT to deliver a biting message aimed at Manchester City's star striker Erling Haaland. This came just after Arsenal's stunning 5-1 victory over City at the Emirates Stadium, marking a pivotal moment this Premier League season.
The match saw Arsenal deliver a masterclass against their rivals, with captain Martin Odegaard opening the scoring just two minutes in. Though Haaland managed to equalize shortly after half-time, Arsenal swiftly regained control, with goals from Thomas Partey, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Kai Havertz, and Ethan Nwaneri sealing the rout.
Haaland, who has become synonymous with controversy this season, previously stirred tension when, following the last match against Arsenal, he told Gunners manager Mikel Arteta to "stay humble". His comments stirred resentment among Arsenal fans, leading to heightened anticipation for the next encounter.
After the recent clash, Morgan wasted no time rubbing salt in the wounds. He recounted how, during their last meeting, Haaland had plenty to say. "This is Piers Morgan for talkSPORT, I've just got back from the stadium after watching Arsenal demolish Manchester City 5-1. The last time we played City, Erling Haaland had a lot to say for himself at the end of the game. Well, there are two things I'd like to say after today's game, Erling. One is, I think you know who Mr Lewis-Skelly is now. And secondly, stay humble," Morgan declared, relishing the opportunity to address Haaland's previous brash remarks.
The 5-1 demolition was seen as particularly sweet for Arsenal, both for the scoreline and the performance of their young star, Lewis-Skelly. Notably, after scoring his goal, the young player celebrated by imitating Haaland's popular meditation pose, seemingly as both homage and playful dig at the Norwegian forward.
Former Sky Sports presenter Jeff Stelling remarked on Morgan's remarks with pointed sarcasm: "Ah, the most humble man on the planet, Piers Morgan, having his say," highlighting the irony of Morgan's status as something of a polarizing figure himself.
Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, reacted to the rivalry on the pitch with measured positivity. He acknowledged Lewis-Skelly's celebration, commenting, "That’s good… that's good," reinforcing the spirited atmosphere the match created.
Since November 2024, Manchester City has been grappling with inconsistency, suffering four consecutive league defeats at one point. The team's response to the recent loss remains to be seen, as they sit fourth in the league with aspirations to reclaim past glory. With the current standings showing Arsenal second and City trailing at ninth, the battle for supremacy intensifies.
Manchester City will hope to regain form during the FA Cup clash against Leyton Orient this coming weekend, as they seek to bounce back from this hefty Premier League loss. For Arsenal, the momentum is on their side, with upcoming Carabao Cup action looming, where they hope to continue their winning streak.
All eyes will not only be on Haaland and his team but also on the vibrant exchange between these two London clubs, highlighting the rich narratives and rivalries pulsing through the heart of English football this season.