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      ‘Aura’ – Fans convinced Gabriel told Haaland ‘go fetch my boot’ as heated rivalry hits new peak in Arsenal vs Man City

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      FANS reckoned Gabriel told Erling Haaland to “fetch my boot” as their rivalry hit new levels.The pair famously clashed at the Etihad earlier in the season when Haaland threw the ball at Gabriel’s head following John Stones’ dramatic equaliser. Gabriel and Erling Haaland renewed their rivalry at the EmiratesCredit: bein SportsThe Arsenal defender pointed at his boot – leaving fans in hystericsCredit: bein SportsThe Norwegian striker then told Mikel Arteta to “stay humble” in the aftermath of the controversial 2-2 draw.Neither Gabriel nor Haaland was backing down in the latest instalment of this bitter feud as Arsenal ran riot with a thumping 5-1 victory over Manchester City. And it was the Arsenal man who had viewers in stitches with his antics late on at the Emirates.Following their latest tussle, the Brazilian defender ended up on the deck missing his right boot.REAAD MORE ON ARSENAL VS CITYAs Haaland walked off, he grabbed the City striker’s shorts and then pointed at his point.While it seems he was simply pointing out that Haaland had knocked his boot off in the challenge, plenty of Arsenal supporters were convinced he was ordering Haaland to go and get it for him.One said: “Gabriel telling Haaland to go fetch his boot is all the ‘stay humble’ aura we need.”Another wrote: “Oi little bro, go fetch my boot like a good boy.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSA third added: “Gabriel told him to grab his boot for him on live TV in front of the world.”A fourth commented: “Gabriel telling Haaland to go pick his boot has to be the funniest thing ever. Stay humble eh.”‘Stay humble,’ Erling Haaland tells Arteta who gives him brutal death stare before Gabriel Jesus confronts Man City ace A fifth replied: “He’s fully rattled.”And a final user quipped: “Gabriel asking Haaland to pass him in his boot after mugging him off. I’m afraid there’s simply no other option but for Haaland to retire now.”Gabriel was relishing his chance to have another go at Haaland.And he did not have to wait long to get his first pop in.With less than two minutes on the clock, Arsenal capitalised on a defensive error and Martin Odegaard slotted home.Gabriel screamed in Haaland’s face in the centre circle – Martin Keown vs Ruud van Nistelrooy style – as he ran past to join in the team celebrations. Haaland got in the next blow by rising above Gabriel’s centre-back partner William Saliba to thunder in a powerful header for the equaliser.But as Arsenal took control of the game, Myles Lewis-Skelly joined in the digs at Haaland by brilliantly copying his trademark ‘meditating’ celebration when he made it 3-1.Then when Ethan Nwaneri curled home a beauty with the final kick of the game to wrap up the 5-1 thumping, Gabriel sarcastically and pointedly clapped right in front of Haaland.The City star refused to bite despite his frustrations and calmly smirked and pointed to the golden Premier League badge on his sleeve – reminding his foe of their respective recent silverware. Gabriel, meanwhile, got into an animated argument with Matheus Nunes as the tempers continued to sizzle away after the full-time whistle once again.READ MORE SUN STORIESHaaland’s dad even got involved in his son’s battle, sharing a post from Arsenal of the Gunners stars enjoying Lewis-Skelly’s celebration captioned “this team” by writing: “‘This Team’ that wins everything. Ehhhhh, not.”But in the end, it was the centre-back who enjoyed the last laugh with an emphatic demolition job of the crumbling, catastrophic champions. Gabriel roared in Haaland’s face when Martin Odegaard scoredCredit: ViaplayThe defender enjoyed Myles Lewis-Skelly’s cheeky celebrationCredit: GettyGabriel sarcastically clapped towards Haaland near at the endCredit: ReutersThe striker responded by pointing at the gold Premier League badge on his sleeveCredit: ReutersGabriel clashed with Matheus Nunes at the endCredit: RexThe defender clearly enjoyed the sweet thumping victoryCredit: Getty More

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      How Ruben Amorim’s bizarre Kobbie Mainoo false 9 experiment failed as Man Utd boss struggles to solve goalscoring crisis

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      YOU can’t say Ruben Amorim didn’t try something new.But choosing a teenage 5ft 9ins holding midfielder to play up front for the first time did nothing to solve the goalscoring crisis at Manchester United.Kobbie Mainoo played up front for Manchester United in the defeat to Crystal PalaceCredit: AlamyRuben Amorim’s experiment failed as the Red Devils lost 2-0Credit: ReutersEyebrows were certainly raised when Kobbie Mainoo, 19, got the nod to lead the line for United as Crystal Palace visited Old Trafford. Especially when the Portuguese manager named not one but two senior strikers on the bench.Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee watched on as Mainoo took his place up top. Safe to say, the experiment failed as Manchester United scored zero and Palace scored two on another miserable afternoon for Amorim. READ MORE ON MAN UTDMainoo’s role was not as an out-and-out No9 – instead dropping in as a No9 to get involved in the play.It meant at times he was more of a No10, where he excelled in the Europa League win at FCSB on Thursday. And his average position reflected that, only just in front of Bruno Fernandes with Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo further forward. In Mainoo’s defence, he is not responsible for the rogue tactic not paying off as he tried his best against a trio of towering Palace centre-halves.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAfter all, he is not a striker and has six goals in his professional career – albeit memorable ones against Wolves and Manchester City last season before his maiden European goal on Thursday night, his first strike of the season. Zirkzee has 47, Hojlund has 57 and Aston Villa-bound Marcus Rashford has 155 – a penny for his thoughts as a fellow academy graduate started up front…Man Utd stars hit Ruben Amorim as he runs birthday gauntlet in training… and is left holding his backBut in fairness to Amorim, it wasn’t all bad, either.In fact, it started relatively brightly with Mainoo teeing up Garnacho well and also hitting the post. But that chance with six minutes on the clock proved to be the youngster’s only shot of the match. In his 70 minutes on the field, Mainoo racked up 31 touches in all – three in the Eagles’ penalty area – with 12 of his 15 passes successful.He won three duels but lost nine and failed to complete a single dribble as he struggled to hold the ball up or stretch the Palace defence. In the end, Mainoo was taken off with 20 minutes to go as Amorim sent on both Zirkzee and Hojlund – but neither of them offered much more. And with that, Amorim is no closer to knowing where or who goals will come from in the second half of the season.Diallo is United’s top scorer in the Premier League on six – three of which came late on against Southampton – with Fernandes on five, three of which have been from the penalty spot.Next is Rashford on four – despite him not making a league appearance since December 7. The January transfer window shuts on Monday night and United do not appear to be bringing a striker in to follow defenders Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu into Old Trafford. Amorim will be relieved to look at the fixture list and see it is Leicester in the FA Cup next.The leaky Foxes defence have conceded 60 goals this season, including eight in two games away at Manchester United during their now-boss Ruud van Nistelrooy’s brief stint in interim charge with the Red Devils. But when attention returns to the Premier League away at Spurs in a fortnight before games against Everton, Ipswich and Arsenal, who can Amorim rely on to deliver the much-needed goals to secure much-needed wins and earn much-needed points to climb up from 13th in the table?READ MORE SUN STORIESOn today’s evidence, it is not Mainoo – for Mainoo is a midfielder who chips in with the odd goal from time to time.But is it Hojlund? Is it Zirkzee? Or does it need to be someone else? Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were sent on with 20 minutes to goCredit: GettyMainoo struggled to have the impact he would have wantedCredit: AlamyHis one shot of the match came back off the postCredit: EPAAmad Diallo is United’s top scorer in the Premier League with sixCredit: Alamy More

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      Arsenal 5-1 Man City LIVE RESULT: Five-star Gunners rip City to shreds in statement win to keep title hopes alive

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      ARSENAL have THRASHED champions Manchester City to put down a huge marker in the Premier League and keep their title hopes alive!It took just one minute and 44 seconds for Martin Odegaard to open the scoring after capitalising on Manuel Akanji’s howler.Erling Haaland equalised for City in the 55th minute before strikes from Thomas Partey, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Kai Havertz and Ethan Nwaneri saw Arsenal fight back in stunning fashion.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSFollow ALL of the latest updates below…Match reportHumble pie is a dish best served cold – and Erling Haaland was force-fed until he was sick to the stomach at a throbbing Emirates Stadium. Manchester City’s Norwegian goal machine had told Mikel Arteta to ‘stay humble’ and chucked a ball at the head of Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes after City stole an injury-time equaliser in September.Here was payback. When Martin Odegaard fired an early opener, Gabriel screamed into Haaland’s face. When Myles Lewis-Skelly netted a peach of a first senior goal, he aped Haaland’s goal trademark celebration. And when Kai Havertz netted the fourth in this rout of Pep Guardiola’s fallen champions, tens of thousands of gleeful Gooners sang ‘Haaland’s a c***, ole, ole!” Copy linkCopiedNext fourCup duty up next for the two sides as Arsenal head for St James’ Park in midweek and City are in FA Cup action next weekend.Leicester, West Ham and Nottingham Forest for the Gunners in the league while City have Newcastle at home sandwiched by two incredible Champions League play off ties with Real Madrid.Copy linkCopiedMyles aheadOn Myles Lewis-Skelly, Mikel Arteta told Sky Sports: “You need big individual performances to beat them. Myles was certainly one of them, the maturity he showed and competitiveness as well.”He plays with that personality and he’s scored a beautiful goal.”He has been pushing us since he has been with us. We like his character and personality. He has so much courage.”He has qualities that fit into the way we want to play. He got some minutes and he is asking for more. He deserves to play.”Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – FORWARDSLeandro Trossard – 6: Was particularly lively on the left in the first half, giving Matheus Nunes a real run for his money. His end product, however, wasn’t the best.Gabriel Martinelli – 6: Lively on the right wing in the early goings. Found the back of the net in the fifth minute after some beautiful play from Odegaard but was needlessly offside. Forced a good save out of Ortega with a rasping effort in the 68th minute.Kai Havertz – 6: Lively early doors, testing Stefan Ortega with a tame shot in the first minute. Teed up Odegaard for a tap in a few moments later. Missed a golden opportunity to double the lead in the 25th minute, dragging the ball wide with the goal at his absolute mercy.Made amends for his howler by finishing an even harder chance in the 76th minute. He well and truly needed that as he looked absolutely devoid of confidence.Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – MIDFIELDThomas Partey – 7: Steady in the heart of midfield and broke up play well when required. Fired the Gunners back into the lead in the 57th minute with a deflected shot from outside the box.Martin Odegaard – 7: Was in the right place at the right time to benefit from the aftermath of an uncharacteristic Manuel Akanji error and break the deadlock. Was at the heart of everything good the north Londoners did going forward.Declan Rice – 6: Combative, as always, in the middle of the park and played a role in the home side taking the lead, teeing up Havertz who squared the ball to Odegaard.Copy linkCopiedArsenal player ratings – DEFENDERSSunSport’s Chisanga Malata runs the rule over Arsenal’s players this afternoon.David Raya – 7/10: Had very little to do in the first half but made a brilliant save in the 22nd minute to deny a goalbound header from Josko Gvardiol.Made another stunning save two minutes from the half-time interval, stopping a deflected Savinho shot from close range. Powerless to stop Erling Haaland’s 55th-minute header from briefly levelling the scores.Jurrien Timber – 6: Didn’t offer his usual attacking threat going forward but was solid defensively. Picked up a pointless yellow breaking up a harmless counter-attack in the 24th minute. Almost scored late in the second half.William Saliba – 5: Didn’t have much to do in the first half but won all his aerial battles in the first 45 minutes. Marshalled the defence well early in the second period but was embarrassingly outjumped and outmuscled by Haaland for City’s equaliser – a major flaw of his that continues to be exposed.Gabriel – 6: Like his defensive partner, he was seldom called into action in the first half. Dominant in the air in his battles with Haaland, who he trolled after Odegaard’s goal.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 8: Continues to endear himself to the Emirates faithful with composure and tenacity beyond his years as he brilliantly floated between left back and midfield. Put real daylight between the two sides with a thumping finish just after the hour mark. This young lad is a real bright prospect for both the Gunners and England.His trolling of Haaland by copying the Norwegian’s ‘Lotus’ celebration went down a storm with fans.Copy linkCopiedEveryone involvedOpta say Ethan Nwaneri’s goal included a passing move that involved EVERY Arsenal player.The move lasted nearly two minutes – the longest passing move leading to a goal in the Premier League since September 2023.They posted: “Ethan Nwaneri’s goal ended a passing sequence of 36 uninterrupted passes in a move that lasted one minute & 54 seconds and involved every Arsenal outfield player. “It was the longest passing move leading to a Premier League goal since September 2023.”Copy linkCopied’High competitive level’Mikel Arteta was delighted with the manner in which his team won this ‘must-win’ contest.He told Sky Sports: “It is a great day for us, especially with the necessity that we had to win the game. The manner that we have done it I am really pleased.”We had to suffer and in moments we needed a bit of luck, and we had it.”They hold you very deep and in those moments you have to suffer and as I said, there were moments that we were lucky.”Overall, we scored some beautiful goals and the team showed a high competitive level.”Copy linkCopied’Wonderful player’Just on Declan Rice who spoke a short time ago, he was awarded man of the match for his display this afternoon after two assists.Jamie Carragher told Sky Sports: “I scratch my head when l hear people criticising Declan Rice.”He is an all-round midfielder. He is a throwback to the midfielder who used to play in a 4-4-2 and could do a bit of everything.”He is a wonderful player.”Copy linkCopiedMore from PepPep Guardiola admits ‘I regret the last 15/20 minutes’ as he praised his team for their performance up until that point.He told the BBC: “I only regret the last 25 minutes, we forgot to do what we should do, what we have done for 65/70 minutes. “Of course it’s a difficult game starting in this stadium, against that team in the first minutes it’s happened many times this season.”But after 10/15 minutes I think we took the game and played really, really, really, really good and we are in it after 1-1 and good momentum we pass to make the transition with Omar and a deflection and the third goal.”But after that, we then continued to do what you have to do in terms defensively and little bit more patient. When you’re playing that way they can run and of course at 3-1 they are comfortable, its more difficult. I regret the last 15/20 minutes, the rest was a really good game for our side. It’s difficult to understand when you see the result but this is my feeling.”It’s happened all season, we are giving away too many things, we are aware this cannot happen, it happened. But we reacted really well and we played with personality and we defended so good and then with the ball we were a threat but unfortunately after the second happened, again many times we had the momentum. For the deflection and in other situations we conceded the goals.”Copy linkCopiedPep agreesPep Guardiola told his press conference that he agreed with John Stones’ ‘unacceptable’ claim.He said: “I agree with Stones. We reacted really well. After the Havertz miss, we played the game in the high, high level we can be.”You can lose two, three, four. But what we have done in 65, it was not done.”Hopefully we can learn the lessons for the future.”Copy linkCopied’Fire in our bellies’Declan Rice admitted the Arsenal players wanted to make amends for the bad blood contest at the Etihad earlier this season.He told Sky Sports: “To win 5-1 is an unbelievable scoreline – we had fire in our bellies from what happened at the Etihad at the start of the season, we really wanted to amend that. I think we did.”It was an even game up until the third goal. They posed a threat, had a lot of the ball. We had to sit deep. Even though we won 5-1, Man City are a top team.”It’s been building up over a certain amount of time. They nicked the title off Arsenal when I wasn’t here and then they beat us to the title. It’s been hard to accept that and then everything that went on at the Etihad, you do get that fire in your stadium. The boys are buzzing. We are still off the top and that’s where we want to be.”Copy linkCopiedNot taking it wellErling Haaland’s dad Alfie not quite taking the defeat that well.He’s responded to an Arsenal post on X, showing Lewis-Skelly surrounded by his teammates while doing his son’s celebration.Copy linkCopiedFinish as friends?Is the feud over? Are Haaland and Gabriel finally friends?That doesn’t seem likely. This was Gabriel after the 5th goal. I wouldn’t think they shared a kind word but I could be wrong…Copy linkCopied’Unacceptable’John Stones apologised to the Man City fans for their performance in the final half an hour.He told Sky Sports: “Yeah it’s difficult. I think all of us don’t taking losing well. It’s hard for me to put into words straight after a game like that.”Pride is hurt. Sorry to the fans that travelled to sit and watch how we played that last 30 minutes, it was not acceptable.”As a collective it’s not us, it’s not nice to be involved in that when it’s not yourself or the team.”Credit to Arsenal, it’s not an easy place to come to. I thought for 60-65 minutes we played some great football at times and we were in the game.”Angry and upset, personally and collectively.”Copy linkCopied”Got what we deserved”He told Sky Sports: “It was a top game and a top performance.”With the fans and the atmosphere and the scoresheet like that it can’t be better.”It was about time [getting on the scoresheet himself] and it was good after as we didn’t stop – we kept on going. We got what we deserved. It was a good one.”Copy linkCopiedFinal statsSeven shots on target and five goals for Arsenal. The Gunners with more goals than City had efforts on target.City had much more of the ball until around 70 minutes but Arsenal wrestled some of it back with some keep-ball to see out the final 10 minutes.Copy linkCopied’Enjoy it’Arsenal legend Thierry Henry told Sky Sports: “When they play like that they’re difficult to stop. Let’s enjoy it – it doesn’t happen often.”Liverpool are still six points ahead with a game in hand. Let’s carry on working the way we did in the last 30 minutes.”Copy linkCopiedHow we standA look at the top of the Premier League table as Arsenal close the gap to six points – and their goal difference looks healthier now too!Liverpool still have a game in hand and a six point lead and in truth are probably not going to be caught.They’d need to lose three of their remaining games with Arsenal winning every single one from now to the end of the season. Neither is likely.But the Gunners can only keep winning and hope something miraculous happens!City stay fourth – just – on goal difference.Nottingham Forest the big winners in the Champions League hunt this weekend!Copy linkCopied’Stunned’Following the game Gary Neville on co-commentary duties said: “They’ve torn Manchester City to shreds in the last 25 minutes.”Nwaneri was brilliant since coming on. Stunned. Emphatic from Arsenal.”Copy linkCopiedNail on the headA text from my brother there who hit the nail on the head.How have Manchester City let it get to February 2nd and field a back four and keeper like they did today?Gvardiol maybe the exception but he’s far better attacking than he is defensively.So getting no real protection from Kovacic and Bernardo Silva, who was happy to just run around ineffectively, it was a disaster waiting to happen.Copy linkCopiedFT – Arsenal 5-1 Man CityQuite a boring first half but a thrilling second half, especially from the home side.Five goals, five different scorers and Arsenal hand City a right doing.City were hopeless, devoid of any sort of idea. Copy linkCopiedFULL TIME!A blistering second half display sees Arsenal thump the champions to move to within six points of Liverpool!ARSENAL 5-1 MAN CITYCopy linkCopiedGOAL DETAILArsenal keep the ball until working it out to Nwaneri on the corner of the box.Savinho and Gvardiol’s attempt at defending is woeful, letting him cut in on his left foot.The youngster bends a beauty right into the bottom corner. Ortega couldn’t even be bothered making an attempt at keeping out.Five-star from Arsenal!Copy linkCopied90+3 – GOAL!! ARSENAL 5-1 Man CityETHAN NWANERI with a sensational strike to round-off a thumping win!Copy linkCopied More

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      ‘S***house’ Myles Lewis-Skelly, 18, hits the Erling Haaland celebration after scoring first Arsenal goal vs Man City

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      ARSENAL whizkid Myles Lewis-Skelly was on wind-up duties against Manchester City.The talented full-back did Erling Haaland’s meditation celebration after putting the Gunners 3-1 up against Pep Guardiola’s side at the Emirates.Myles Lewis-Skelly was on wind-up duties against Manchester CityLewis-Skelly did Erling Haaland’s celebration after making it 3-1Credit: RexHis team-mates huddled around him as he sat on the turfCredit: GettyGabriel bowed to Lewis-Skelly before Arsenal went on to win 5-1Credit: GettyLewis-Skelly wrapped in a two goal cushion in the 61st minute, with a great strike from his weaker foot – his first Premier League goal.But it was the 18-year-old’s celebration that had Arsenal fans talking before Mikel Arteta’s men went on to inflict a brutal 5-1 defeat on City.Lewis-Skelly hilariously mimicked City striker Haaland’s meditation cele near the corner flag with his back towards the fans.It clearly wasn’t planned as his team-mates huddled around him and laughed before he stood back up again.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSHaaland’s celebration involves him sitting in a meditative pose, reminiscent of the ‘Lotus’ pose from yoga.In this pose, he sits on the ground with his wrists on his knees and his fingers touching his thumb, embodying calm and inner peace.But there was no peace in this game as Gabriel reignited his feud with Haaland after celebrating in his rival’s face at 1-0.Fans were loving the needle shown by teenager Lewis-Skelly, who was only allowed to play after the FA overturned his red card from Wolves last week.Most read in FootballHaaland celebrating with his ‘meditation pose’CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSReacting on social media, one fan said: “Lewis-Skelly!!!!!!!!!! Quality this guy!!!! What a s***housery celebration too!”Another said: “That is ice cold!! 🤣”‘Bro thinks he’s Kate Abdo’ say fans as David Jones introduces very familiar panel for Sky’s coverage of Arsenal vs CityA third added: “Lewis Skelly he’s one our own. The nerve of this kid 😂.”A fourth said: “The shade is real”, while another replied: “So petty. I love the trolling.”Haaland’s dad Alfie hit out at the Gunners after the full-time whistle, he replied to Arsenal’s official X account: “«This Team» that wins everything. Ehhhhh, not.”Lewis-Skelly and Haaland, who scored City’s only goal on Sunday, came to blows at the start of the season.The Norwegian appeared to shout “who the f*** are you” at the left-back, then 17, during a post-match in September.Meanwhile, Lewis-Skelly was memorably booked on the sidelines before his Prem debut against Man City five months ago.He was caught in an exchange of words and referee Michael Oliver had no hesitation in dishing out a booking in the 2-2 draw.Lewis-Skelly saw yellow after a dugout incident in the reverse fixture at the start of the seasonGabriel celebrated in Haaland’s face after Arsenal took the leadDuring that draw at the Etihad back, Haaland netted and then celebrated John Stones’ 98th minute leveller by throwing a ball at the back of Gabriel’s head.At the time Arteta stood up for Lewis-Skelly after the brawl, in which Haaland famously told the Spanish manager to “stay humble”.Arteta said: “He (Lewis-Skelly) is a competitor.“You look at him, in every duel he goes, the way he reacts with his team-mates, you speak to him it’s constantly eye contact. “He’s nudging, he’s asking questions, it’s a special character.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd the celebrations on Sunday continued after Kai Havertz, who missed a sitter in the first-half, made it 4-1 in the 76th minute.Ethan Nwaneri then scored a screamer with the final shot of the game and rivalled Lewis-Skelly for teenager of the night.Arsenal player ratings vs Man CityARSENAL stunned Man City 5-1 at the Emirates on Sunday evening.It was an incredible result against their rivals of recent years.Here, we take a look at how the Gunners rated…David Raya – 7/10Had very little to do in the first half but made a brilliant save in the 22nd minute to deny a goalbound header from Josko Gvardiol. Made another stunning save two minutes from the half-time interval, stopping a deflected Savinho shot from close range. Powerless to stop Erling Haaland’s 55th-minute header from briefly levelling the scores.Jurrien Timber – 6Didn’t offer his usual attacking threat going forward but was solid defensively. Picked up a pointless yellow breaking up a harmless counter-attack in the 24th minute. Almost scored late in the second half.William Saliba – 5Didn’t have much to do in the first half but won all his aerial battles in the first 45 minutes. Marshalled the defence well early in the second period but was embarrassingly outjumped and outmuscled by Haaland for City’s equaliser – a major flaw of his that continues to be exposed.Gabriel Magalhaes – 6Like his defensive partner, he was seldom called into action in the first half. Dominant in the air in his battles with Haaland, who he trolled after Odegaard’s goal.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 8Continues to endear himself to the Emirates faithful with composure and tenacity beyond his years as he brilliantly floated between left back and midfield. Put real daylight between the two sides with a thumping finish just after the hour mark. This young lad is a real bright prospect for both the Gunners and England.His trolling of Haaland by copying the Norwegian’s ‘Lotus’ celebration went down a storm with fans.Thomas Partey – 7Steady in the heart of midfield and broke up play well when required. Fired the Gunners back into the lead in the 57th minute with a deflected shot from outside the box.Martin Odegaard – 7Was in the right place at the right time to benefit from the aftermath of an uncharacteristic Manuel Akanji error and break the deadlock. Was at the heart of everything good the north Londoners did going forward.Declan Rice – 6Combative, as always, in the middle of the park and played a role in the home side taking the lead, teeing up Havertz who squared the ball to Odegaard.Leandro Trossard – 6Was particularly lively on the left in the first half, giving Matheus Nunes a real run for his money. His end product, however, wasn’t the best.Gabriel Martinelli – 6Lively on the right wing in the early goings. Found the back of the net in the fifth minute after some beautiful play from Odegaard but was needlessly offside. Forced a good save out of Ortega with a rasping effort in the 68th minute.Kai Havertz – 6Lively early doors, testing Stefan Ortega with a tame shot in the first minute. Teed up Odegaard for a tap in a few moments later. Missed a golden opportunity to double the lead in the 25th minute, dragging the ball wide with the goal at his absolute mercy. Made amends for his howler by finishing an even harder chance in the 76th minute. He well and truly needed that as he looked absolutely devoid of confidence.SUBSEthan Nwaneri – 83 (on for Trossard) – 7Put the cherry on top of the cake with an outrageous effort in second-half stoppage time.Mikel Merino – 83 (on for Odegaard) – 5Raheem Sterling – 89 (on for Kai Havertz ) – N/ARiccardo Calafiori 89 (on for Lewis-Skelly) – N/ARead more on all the latest Arsenal news. More

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      ‘So terrible even Pep’s disappointed’ – Fans react to Havertz’s shocking sitter miss after Man City’s kamikaze defending

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      FANS joked that Pep Guardiola was disappointed after Kai Havertz’s shocking miss against his Manchester City side.Havertz missed an absolute sitter to double Arsenal’s lead during their Premier League clash at the Emirates, which ended in a 5-1 win to the Gunners.Kai Havertz missed an absolute sitter to double Arsenal’s lead against Man CityCredit: Sky SportsDeclan Rice won possession back and guided the ball towards Havertz on the edge of the areaCredit: Sky SportsThe 25-year-old somehow rolled it wideCredit: RexPep Guardiola had his head in his hands after Havertz missed the chance to put Arsenal 2-0 up against his sideMartin Odegaard punished a Man City mix-up to put Mikel Arteta’s side 1-0 up inside two minutes.And more kamikaze defending from the Citizens saw calamity at the back just over 20 minutes later.Stefan Ortega fed Mateo Kovacic on the edge of his own box but Declan Rice brilliantly pressed and won the ball away from the Croatian.A loose ball fell to Havertz in acres of space but the German international fluffed his lines after taking a touch and lining himself up.READ MORE ARSENAL NEWSThe 25-year-old somehow rolled it wide from 15 yards, with the goal gaping and covered his face with his shirt in shame.The camera panned to Guardiola on the touchline and the Spaniard was seen dropping to his knees.And fans have had a field day online.One joked: “Even Guardiola is angry that Havertz missed the open goal!”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSArsenal player ratings vs Man CityARSENAL stunned Man City 5-1 at the Emirates on Sunday evening.It was an incredible result against their rivals of recent years.Here, we take a look at how the Gunners rated…David Raya – 7/10Had very little to do in the first half but made a brilliant save in the 22nd minute to deny a goalbound header from Josko Gvardiol. Made another stunning save two minutes from the half-time interval, stopping a deflected Savinho shot from close range. Powerless to stop Erling Haaland’s 55th-minute header from briefly levelling the scores.Jurrien Timber – 6Didn’t offer his usual attacking threat going forward but was solid defensively. Picked up a pointless yellow breaking up a harmless counter-attack in the 24th minute. Almost scored late in the second half.William Saliba – 5Didn’t have much to do in the first half but won all his aerial battles in the first 45 minutes. Marshalled the defence well early in the second period but was embarrassingly outjumped and outmuscled by Haaland for City’s equaliser – a major flaw of his that continues to be exposed.Gabriel Magalhaes – 6Like his defensive partner, he was seldom called into action in the first half. Dominant in the air in his battles with Haaland, who he trolled after Odegaard’s goal.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 8Continues to endear himself to the Emirates faithful with composure and tenacity beyond his years as he brilliantly floated between left back and midfield. Put real daylight between the two sides with a thumping finish just after the hour mark. This young lad is a real bright prospect for both the Gunners and England.His trolling of Haaland by copying the Norwegian’s ‘Lotus’ celebration went down a storm with fans.Thomas Partey – 7Steady in the heart of midfield and broke up play well when required. Fired the Gunners back into the lead in the 57th minute with a deflected shot from outside the box.Martin Odegaard – 7Was in the right place at the right time to benefit from the aftermath of an uncharacteristic Manuel Akanji error and break the deadlock. Was at the heart of everything good the north Londoners did going forward.Declan Rice – 6Combative, as always, in the middle of the park and played a role in the home side taking the lead, teeing up Havertz who squared the ball to Odegaard.Leandro Trossard – 6Was particularly lively on the left in the first half, giving Matheus Nunes a real run for his money. His end product, however, wasn’t the best.Gabriel Martinelli – 6Lively on the right wing in the early goings. Found the back of the net in the fifth minute after some beautiful play from Odegaard but was needlessly offside. Forced a good save out of Ortega with a rasping effort in the 68th minute.Kai Havertz – 6Lively early doors, testing Stefan Ortega with a tame shot in the first minute. Teed up Odegaard for a tap in a few moments later. Missed a golden opportunity to double the lead in the 25th minute, dragging the ball wide with the goal at his absolute mercy. Made amends for his howler by finishing an even harder chance in the 76th minute. He well and truly needed that as he looked absolutely devoid of confidence.SUBSEthan Nwaneri – 83 (on for Trossard) – 7Put the cherry on top of the cake with an outrageous effort in second-half stoppage time.Mikel Merino – 83 (on for Odegaard) – 5Raheem Sterling – 89 (on for Kai Havertz ) – N/ARiccardo Calafiori 89 (on for Lewis-Skelly) – N/ARead more on all the latest Arsenal news.A second said: “Even Pep can’t believe Havertz missed that.”A third added: “Havertz’s miss so terrible even Guardiola was disappointed 😂😂.”The sitter looked like it could prove costly, with Erling Haaland equalising for the visitors in the 55th minute.However, the Gunners went on to win 5-1 over their bitter rivals.Striker searchArsenal’s need for an out-and-out goalscoring striker has been well documented this season.Arteta is desperate to bring in a forward before Monday’s deadline, after having a £60m bid for Ollie Watkins rejected by Aston Villa.The Spaniard needs to bolster a squad that has suffered big injuries in attacking areas to the likes of Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka.Last month, Havertz was subjected to vile abuse from a selection of Arsenal fans after missing several chances in their FA Cup third round defeat to Manchester United.Havertz covered his face after denying his side a 2-0 leadCredit: Getty More

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      ‘My answers wouldn’t be long enough’ – Cole Palmer rules out punditry as he reveals shock job he wants after retiring

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      CHELSEA star Cole Palmer revealed the hilarious reason why he will never become a pundit.Palmer, 22, has established himself as one of the best young players in the world ever since his £42.5million move to Stamford Bridge from Manchester City in 2023.Chelsea star Cole Palmer insists he will never become a TV punditCredit: RexPalmer claims his answers would be too short to be a pundit and thus would rather be a scoutCredit: X @SkySportsPLThe star winger has since amassed a staggering total of 39 goals and 21 assists in 70 appearances with the West Londoners.The England international keeps going from strength to strength as he looks to win titles and cement his legacy.Of course, Palmer doesn’t think at all about retirement amid his young age and continuous success.But the Chelsea star knows already that he probably doesn’t have what it takes to become a pundit.Read More on ChelseaThat is because of his laconic and blunt nature that sees him avoiding long conversations with his short and cold answers.The ex-Man City star explained that he would have very little to say compared to the likes of Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher.Palmer told Sky Sports: “I don’t think my answers would be long enough to be a pundit.”Instead, the versatile forward surprisingly sees himself working in the background after retirement – potentially as a scout.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSPalmer added: “I don’t know what I’ll do. Might be a scout.”The Chelsea star has already registered a whopping 14 goals and six assists in 25 appearances across all competitions.Jack Grealish’s reaction to Cole Palmer becoming a manager says it all as he and Maguire apologise to Chelsea starAnd Palmer has yet to compete in Europe with manager Enzo Maresca opting against including him in his Conference League squad for the League Phase. More

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      Man Utd 0 Crystal Palace 2: Amorim’s woeful side slip to 13th as visitors leapfrog Red Devils with smash-and-grab win

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      MANCHESTER UNITED fell to their 11th Prem defeat of the season as Crystal Palace leapfrogged them in the table.Ruben Amorim’s gamble of starting Kobbie Mainoo in attack did not pay off, although Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zrikzee failed to change things after coming on.Jean-Philippe Mateta was the hero once again for Crystal PalaceCredit: ReutersThe striker reacted quickest to fire in a rebound for his firstCredit: ReutersMateta rounded off Palace’s victory with his second easy goalCredit: RexJean-Philippe Mateta was the hero for Palace once again with a second-half double.The striker reacted quickest to fire in a rebound after Maxence Lacroix’s header hit the bar on 64 minutes.Mateta then finished United off int he 89th minute after bursting through on goal with Daniel Munoz.United’s woe deepened when Lisandro Martinez went off in tears on a stretcher.READ MORE ON MAN UTDThe Argentina centre-back appeared to have suffered a serious knee injury following a challenge with Palace winger Ismaila Sarr.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSAlejandro Garnacho gets into training with Man Utd first team New signings Patrick Dorgu, left, and Ayden Heaven were unveiled ahead of kick-offCredit: Getty More

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      Man Utd player ratings: Amad Diallo best of bad bunch in Palace horror show as Harry Maguire dominated by Mateta

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      RUBEN AMORIM’s striker experiment went down like a lead balloon as Crystal Palace beat Manchester United 2-0 at Old Trafford.United set pieces woes continued. And double goalscorer Jean-Philippe Mateta was the only striker on the Old Trafford pitch on Sunday.Kobbie Mainoo started ahead of both strikers Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus HojlundCredit: AlamyRuben Amorim and Oliver Glasner carried wreaths to mark the anniversary of the Munich Air DisasterCredit: GettyAmorim’s latest bold tactic saw midfielder Kobbie Mainoo lead the line as the No.9. And it failed miserably.Mainoo starred as a No.10 in United’s Europa League win against FCSB win on Thursday. But Amorim can’t do this again in the Prem.United started well but soon struggled to get out of their own half as Palace established a foothold and were organised without the ball.The Red Devils had ten shots in the first-half, with zero on target. And Oliver Glasner showed United how to use wing-backs.READ MORE ON MAN UTDNo matter the system, individual errors showed the fragility that lurks below the surface. SunSport rates and slates every United player…Andre Onana – 5Was left vulnerable by a shaky back-line and beaten by Lacroix’s looping header, which came off the crossbar into Mateta’s path. But not much he could’ve done about the second goal.His opposite number Dean Henderson, who departed Old Trafford for Selhurst Park in 2022, had a great game, though.Most read in FootballLeny Yoro – 5Came in for De Ligt, who was benched. Was inches away from scoring his first United goal early on. His positioning was a problem at times.Harry Maguire – 4Lost his battle with striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, who held the ball up well and got in behind every time and was left stranded for his goal.Hasn’t connected with Yoro. Palace, namely Sarr, opened them both up with ease and should’ve buried some chances through Mateta.Lisandro Martinez – 6Was stretchered off after jarring his knee in the 79th minute.Seems to be enjoying his new role in Amorim’s 3-4-3, with sharp, crisp passing from deep into the forward lines.The Argentine has been scoring the goals recently, but blazed a centre-back’s shot over the bar on the brink of half-time.Martinez was left in tears as he was stretchered offNoussair Mazraoui – 5He was okay in the right wing-back role again but it is obviously not his best position.Was asked to shoot too often, with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee both sitting on the bench. Diogo Dalot – 4Bizarrely ducked for Munoz’s back post headed chance on 10 minutes.Awful link-up play with a horrible blind pass inside the Palace box in a promising team position before the break. He’s not a left winger and it’s clear why Patrick Dorgu has been signed.Manuel Ugarte – 6Missing in the middle when Mateta’s stunning 80-yard run. Missed half a chance in the second-half. Bruno Fernandes – 5Restricted. Couldn’t get forward much and was unlucky not to score from his usual 20-yard territory after being denied by Henderson.Was one of three United players booked.Bruno Fernandes struggled to break Palace down in the first-halfCredit: GettyAmad Diallo – 6Great individual runs, on and off the ball. Dropped to wing-back after Mainoo came off and was involved in anything good creatively.Alejandro Garnacho – 5Predictable build-up. But worked hard tracking back as one of the two 10s.Kobbie Mainoo – 4Huge experiment by Amorim to have Mainoo lead the line, albeit falsely. It didn’t pay off, but it wasn’t all his fault.It looked promising early on when the England star set up Garnacho and hit post inside six minutes.But he didn’t get the service or have the hold up play required to be effective. READ MORE SUN STORIESSUBSHojlund (’70 for Mainoo)Zirkzee (’70 for Mazraoui) More