Erling Haaland did not play for Manchester City in the Club World Cup, but his behavior in Saudi Arabia became a story in the Brazilian press.
It all happened in Jeddah, where Fluminense will also meet Pep Guardiola’s team. Families from the Brazilian team were in a mall when they noticed the Norwegian striker.
Globo Esporte begins with statements from Paulo Henrique Ganso’s wife, Giovanna Costi. Haaland, she claims, refused to pose for a photo with her kid.
It was dreadful. Henrico is shocked! He was a big fan! He doesn’t even want to say his name right now… They couldn’t come close because there were only six youngsters, and he didn’t even say farewell from away. He pretended they weren’t there.
“The youngsters were heartbroken! What are the chances of meeting such an idol? On the sidewalk. There was no one there, it was deserted. It would have only taken five seconds! Anyway. You learn even when you’re in agony, right? I’m confident these kids will take something positive away from today!”
Karina Xavier, the wife of Fluminense fullback Samuel Xavier, spoke about the Manchester City player as well.
“I still can’t get over the fact that Haaland didn’t say hello to the children who are his super-fans, he didn’t even look at them.”
Erling Haaland, Jeremy Doku, and Kevin De Bruyne traveled to Saudi Arabia with Manchester City’s side but were unable to compete in the Club World Cup owing to injuries.
Fluminense advanced to the final with a 2-0 victory over Al-Ahly, while Manchester City defeated Urawa Red Diamonds 3-0. They’re now in the final on Friday evening, and aside from the higher motivation that South American teams generally have in this competition, they’re also upset with the English media for the way they’ve been treated.
