Heated moments between players are very common in the big leagues. In the latest Manchester City vs Arsenal game, it took a different angle when Erling Haaland threw the ball at the back of Gabriel Magalhães’ head after City’s late equalizer against the Gunners. Most people, including Ian Wright, are labeling Haaland as a “Coward.” And the Football Association says it will not take any further action over any of the incidents during the 2-2 draw at Etihad Stadium. But, Rio Ferdinand, the former Manchester United defender and current pundit, is supporting this action, saying, “I want that.”

The incident occurred just after City’s John Stones had equalized for the champions in added time after they were trailing 2-1 to a 10-man Arsenal team. The draw in what was more of a slugfest than a chess match left Pep Guardiola’s men with 13 points after five matches, while Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal is fourth with 11. Let’s hear what Rio Ferdinand had to say.

In his recent talks on his show Rio Presents, Rio Ferdinand shared his candid thoughts on this trending topic. “I was cracking up seriously, but I want that, this is football, this is the entertainment, extra part of the game I love.” The former England center-back appreciates the passion and intensity that players bring to the field- he finds it entertaining.

Haaland also had a brief word with Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta, who passed by congratulating all the players. And Haaland told the Spaniard to ‘stay humble’. Also, midfielder Rodri sustained a knee ligament injury against Arsenal on Sunday- Manchester City has confirmed this. With Arsenal two points behind in fourth place, the draw maintains City one point ahead of Arsenal at the top of the Premier League.

Meanwhile, their star striker is not there in the Etihad camp. Let’s find out why.

Erling Haaland’s absence from Man City’s match is because of family duties

In just five Premier League games this season. Erling Haaland has scored ten incredible goals, including hat-tricks against Ipswich and West Ham. However, City had to do it without him as they took on Watford in the third round of a competition that they dominated to win four straight times between 2018 and 2021 but haven’t won since. The Carabao Cup.

Their lucky striker has gone back to Norway to attend the funeral of his close family friend, Ivar Eggja. Eggja passed away earlier this month at just the age of 59. He was seen as an uncle and confidant by the city forward and was the best friend of his father. When Haaland moved to Manchester in 2022 after signing for Pep Guardiola’s side, it was Eggja who arranged a fully furnished apartment for him to live in so the 24-year-old could focus on playing.

The striker is, at present, spending time with his family. And he is expected to be back to Manchester for the next EPL clash against Newcastle United on Saturday.