In the wake of Manchester City’s dramatic 2–1 Premier League win at Anfield, one comment has turned as many heads as the match itself. While all eyes were on the late penalty and controversial VAR calls, Erling Haaland dropped a statement that’s now sparking fresh debates among fans.

The Norwegian striker — widely regarded as one of world football’s most lethal forwards — took time after the game to speak about Dominik Szoboszlai, the Liverpool midfielder who was at the centre of the defining moment.

Szoboszlai, deployed out of position due to tactical necessity, played a key role in the chaotic final stages that saw a late goal chalked off and the Hungarian shown a red card for a challenge involving Haaland.

🗣️ Haaland’s Unexpected Praise

Despite the high tensions and the fact his penalty sealed the win for City, Haaland offered a surprising show of respect for his former RB Salzburg teammate. He suggested that the referee’s decisions were perhaps too harsh and expressed sympathy for Szoboszlai’s predicament.

This endorsement is significant given that Szoboszlai has been unfairly labelled by some supporters and pundits as inconsistent or underperforming in big games — a reputation Haaland’s comments may now challenge.

🔥 What Fans Are Saying

Across social media, Liverpool fans and neutrals alike have seized on Haaland’s words, seeing them as a rare gesture of sporting respect from an opposition star. Many argue that when someone of Haaland’s calibre publicly defends a rival, it undercuts the critics and highlights Szoboszlai’s real quality.

Supporters have also pointed out Szoboszlai’s tactical versatility — including his performance out of position — and moments of brilliance like his stunning free-kick against City earlier in the same match.

💭 Final Thoughts

Whether this shifts the narrative around Szoboszlai long-term remains to be seen. But one thing’s clear: when elite players speak out with respect and empathy after a fierce contest, it captures the imagination of the football community and reminds everyone that respect across rivalries still matters.