Pep Guardiola Settles Erling Haaland vs Trent Alexander-Arnold Altercation With Classy Gesture

Published 03/08/2024, 9:17 AM EST

Pep Guardiola is a wizard when it comes to responding to the media’s questions. However, this time, the Spaniard took an opportunity to teach a lesson to players on both sides as Liverpool takes on Manchester City in an epic fight, racing for the Premier League title. The battleground was already heated up with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s comments about City’s trophies and Erling Haaland‘s response. But now, Guardiola has stepped in to end the matter.

Speaking to the press, Pep Guardiola, when asked about Trent’s comment, said, “I wish him a speedy recovery and come back to the pitch as soon as possible,” not exaggerating the issue. Guardiola was further pushed later in the presser. He ended the topic by responding, “I would answer but, why? Honestly. It is what it is”. This was one of the rare occasions when players of both teams had to say something to each other. How did it all spark?

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This saga was triggered when Trent Alexander Arnold undermined City’s success saying, “Although [City] have won more titles than us and have probably been more successful, our trophies will mean more to us and our fan base because of the situations at both clubs financially,” to which Haaland had the counter.

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He replied stating, “If he wants to say that, OK. I’ve been here one year and I won the treble and it was quite a nice feeling, I don’t think he knows exactly this feeling.” Scoring 52 goals last season, the treble would have tasted sweet for the 23-year-old. Additionally, City will also have one positive tomorrow with Trent being out.

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Pep Guardiola is at an advantage, as Trent’s injury sidelines him

Even though Pep Guardiola wished the right-back a quick recovery, he will cherish the fullback’s absence. Proving to be the party spoiler for the defending champions, the English international’s goal in the 80th minute helped Liverpool draw the game in their last encounter. Hence, the player’s absence because of a lateral collateral ligament injury will benefit the Cityzens.

Moreover, the sharing of points in the last encounter is one of the reasons for a close title contest this time around. Either team will take the advantage by winning the game, but a draw will favor the underdogs Arsenal, who have an impressive goal difference. Keeping this in mind, Guardiola may have preferred to go with a calm mind rather than have a war of words.

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Written by:

Ruthu is a Soccer Writer at EssentiallySports. Growing up in a sporting background, he found a passion for soccer through the remarkable 2002 World Cup-winning Brazilian team. Ruthu brings an out-of-the-box perspective with writing, as he possesses the ability to view the game from different critical angles, a skill that sets apart a sports journalist.

Edited by:

Daniel D'Cruz

Pep Guardiola Settles Erling Haaland vs Trent Alexander-Arnold Altercation With Classy Gesture

Pep Guardiola is at an advantage, as Trent’s injury sidelines him

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