Erling Haaland's statement after Arsenal draw shows true feelings on Man City approach

Erling Haaland scored what looked to be the winning goal for Manchester City on Sunday before Gabriel Martinelli rescued a point for Arsenal in stoppage time

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland posted a message on social media after City's 1-1 draw at Arsenal on Sunday, making his feelings clear on their tactical approach at the Emirates Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's side adopted an uncharacteristic approach against Mikel Arteta's team over the weekend, with the City team having only 33 percent possession in North London. The visitors' approach seemed to pay off when Haaland put them ahead early.

Guardiola's side remained resolute for most of the match until Gabriel Martinelli's last-minute goal salvaged a point. City's game plan against Arsenal has sparked much discussion, as they abandoned their usual possession-heavy style for a more defensive stance against one of their fellow Premier League title contenders.

And Haaland has now had his say on Sunday's draw at the Emirates Stadium. "Proud of how we battled today, thank you for your support always!" he said on Instagram, alongside several pictures of him in action during the game.

Guardiola revealed post-match that Haaland was taken off because he suffered back pain, which first affected him during the week.

"The first three of four balls he could win the duels and win all the duels with Gabriel and Saliba. Sorry, it's not easy," said the City boss.

"At the end he was exhausted, a lot of pain in his back. He was suffering the last few days. It's so demanding and he will take a break a little bit to the last games."

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, former City defender Micah Richards claimed that Haaland would score 60 goals a season if he faced the space he was afforded for his goal against Arteta's men.

“He [Haaland] must have been delighted with the space he had to run into," Richards said. "If he had that every week, he’d score 50 goals a season; he would score 60 even.

“When he went through one-on-one, I had no doubt in my mind that he was going to score. He’s not going to scuff it, he’s going to put it in one of the corners, and it was a brilliant finish.”

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