Erling Haaland’s dad Alfie mocks Arsenal over post-match Community Shield antics

Erling Haaland’s father Alfie sent a sarcastic congratulatory message to Arsenal after their Community Shield triumph over Manchester City.

Cole Palmer put last season’s treble winners in front in the 77th minute at Wembley but Leandro Trossard’s deflected strike in the closing stages of injury time pulled Arsenal level to force a penalty shootout.

Kevin de Bruyne’s spot kick rattled the crossbar before Rodri saw his effort saved by Aaron Ramsdale, which then allowed Fabio Vieira to step up and score his penalty to seal the trophy for Arsenal.

Haaland meanwhile had yet another disappointing outing in the Community Shield on Sunday and was substituted right before the hour mark.

Despite his son’s sub-par showing on the pitch, Alfie posted a tongue-in-cheek congratulatory message to Arsenal on social media in response to a post highlighting the striker’s record-breaking exploits for City last season. He wrote: “Well done Arsenal, great win. You must be favourites for the league now.”

😉 Well done Arsenal, great win. You must be favourites for the league now. https://t.co/naiacZAvb0

— Alfie Haaland (@alfiehaaland) August 6, 2023

Haaland himself also took aim at Arsenal fans after he was booed off at Wembley as he held up three fingers to remind them of City’s treble success last season.

Speaking after City’s defeat at Wembley, Pep Guardiola insisted he had no doubts over Haaland’s ability to reproduce last season’s 52-goal haul in all competitions.

‘He’s a winner, he has a good mentality,’ Guardiola said.

‘Minutes and rhythm, that is what he needs. He’s so tall, he’s so big, to move his body is completely different to Bernardo, or Phil, or the other players, that’s why today he played 60, 65 minutes.

‘I’m pretty sure against Burnley he will be in better condition.

‘We needed fresh legs in that moment. Julian [Alvarez] was outstanding, the game he played was exceptional.’