Alf-Inge Haaland, father of Manchester City’s Erling Haaland and former City player himself, was escorted out of a VIP box at the Bernabeu during the Champions League game with Real Madrid for taunting supporters of the Spanish side.
The incident occurred on Tuesday while his son Erling played for Manchester City against Real Madrid. As he prepared to make his way out of the box, the 50-year-old could be seen smiling and cupping his ears.
Responding to the incident, he has suggested his celebrations angered the home supporters after Kevin De Bruyne’s long-range effort brought City level in the Spanish capital. While Real Madrid’s supporters didn’t take kindly to the actions, some City fans were revelling in his antics.
“Ok. RM [Real Madrid] was not happy we were celebrating KDB goal. Other than than that we had to move because RM fans not happy with 1-1,” he wrote. When accused of throwing peanuts at Real fans, he added: “Ok. I did not. Not true. We had some good banter with Madrid fans. They were not happy when City scored. Typical. Then we had to move 50 meters away. Nothing more. All happy. Well nearly…”
Some referred to Alf-Inge as a “legend” while others called his actions “brilliant”. There was also a suggestion that his behaviour could see tensions rise ahead of the return game in Manchester.
The game ended all-square, setting up a tantalising second leg.
