 "Erling Haaland is accused of injuring Man City mascot 'Moonbeam': Image: Man City")
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland is at the center of controversy after allegations surfaced that he struck the club’s mascot, Moonbeam, on the back of the head before a Premier League match against Southampton in October 2024. The incident has led to a police complaint, but Manchester City have reportedly denied any wrongdoing.
The allegations stem from an incident at the Etihad Stadium where Haaland allegedly hit the back of the head of the club’s mascot, Moonbeam, portrayed by a temporary female employee. Reports suggest that the woman initially believed she had been hit by a stray football while posing for a photograph. However, she later learned that Haaland had allegedly struck her from behind.
Following the incident, the woman, who had been working as Moonbeam since last summer, went for medical checks at a hospital the following day. She reportedly filed an assault complaint with Greater Manchester Police after the incident.
Man City deny allegations
Manchester City reportedly launched an internal investigation into the matter. The club ultimately cleared Haaland of any wrongdoing and opted not to renew the contract of the woman involved. A spokesperson for the Premier League club dismissed the allegations.
“The club fully investigated and found that none of the evidence, including video footage, backed up the claim that an injury was sustained in the manner alleged. We’re also aware a complaint was made to Greater Manchester Police and no further action was taken by them either," the spokesperson was quoted as saying by Reuters.
The Mascot’s perspective
The woman, who has chosen to remain anonymous, has accused Manchester City of attempting to protect Haaland and cover up the incident.
“I was pretty upset and I was crying. My head was thudding and I think I was in shock. I later realised he’d come behind me and hit me on the head and then leaned on my head,” she was quoted as saying by The Sun.
She claimed she was in pain as she walked off the pitch and asked a colleague, “What the hell was that that hit me?” to which she was allegedly told, “It was Erling. He hit you from behind.”