Gabriel Martinelli has come to the defence of Myles Lewis-Skelly’s much-talked-about celebration during Arsenal’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Manchester City, asserting that the young Gunner meant no disrespect to Erling Haaland.
After netting his first goal for the senior team, Lewis-Skelly imitated the City forward’s trademark meditation celebration. Post-match, with Arsenal’s title hopes invigorated, manager Mikel Arteta seemed to caution his squad about over-celebrating.
However, Martinelli backed his team-mate, whose second-half goal highlighted another standout display from the academy graduate. “I don’t know if it (the celebration) was planned, but, for sure, he respects Erling a lot,” said Martinelli. “He scored an amazing goal, and he has been brilliant recently. We are really happy for him.”
Haaland, who briefly equalised for City in the match at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, had previously been on the receiving end of Arsenal’s attention after his “stay humble” remark to Arteta during the frenzied 2-2 draw earlier in the season at the Etihad Stadium. Before Lewis-Skelly’s nod to Haaland’s celebration, Gabriel had yelled in the face of the Norwegian following Martin Odegaard’s goal, and Arsenal fans also didn’t shy away from taunting the striker, who responded by gesturing towards the Premier League champions badge on his sleeve.
