One of the Premier League's most gripping personal feuds goes global on Sunday when Brazil face Norway in the World Cup last 16. Manchester City striker Erling Haaland, Norway's irresistible force, comes up against Arsenal defender Gabriel, Brazil's immovable object, in New York New Jersey Stadium – a rivalry that regularly boils over into animosity and will now help decide which nation advances to the quarter-finals.
Former England striker Chris Sutton told BBC Sport: "For all the battling for the Golden Boot between the greats such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Harry Kane and Haaland, there have not been any great personal duels. Now we have one. This is the standout personal duel of the World Cup so far and make no mistake, it will have a huge bearing on the outcome of the game."
“Haaland and Gabriel's Premier League feud goes global as Norway face Brazil in World Cup last 16.”
Alan Shearer added: "That will be a great battle because there is definitely a bit of niggle there. They don't like each other which is fine, you don't have to like your opponent, and we have seen them have clashes before."
The animosity dates back to 22 September 2024, when Manchester City's John Stones scored a 98th-minute equaliser against 10-man Arsenal at Etihad Stadium. In the chaotic aftermath, Haaland ran into the net, retrieved the ball and threw it with great force at the back of Gabriel's head as he covered it with his Arsenal shirt. After the final whistle, Haaland turned to Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with his infamous "stay humble" remark.
Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti has been plotting how to keep Haaland quiet. While his specific plan was not detailed in the source, the pressure is on the five-time world champions who have never beaten Norway in four attempts – drawing two and losing two – making Norway the only side the Selecao have faced without a win.
Meanwhile, Manchester City have confirmed the departure of defender Nathan Ake to Fenerbahce in a deal worth up to £8.5m. The Netherlands international, who made just six Premier League starts last season, said: "It's been a privilege to represent Manchester City over the past six years. I'll always cherish the memories, particularly of winning the Treble."
Elsewhere, Premier League clubs have been warned they may need to break the £100m mark to sign Morocco's World Cup breakout star Ayyoub Bouaddi. Lille president Olivier Letang told Eurosport: "Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him right now. He's already one of the best midfielders in the world." Bouaddi, 18, has three years left on his contract and will face France in the quarter-finals, with a semi-final spot against Portugal, Spain, USA or Belgium at stake.