Manchester City Investigates Erling Haaland After Mascot’s Injury Claim

City Clears Haaland of Wrongdoing After Mascot Claims She Suffered Concussion and Whiplash From a Pre-Match Incident.

Manchester City recently launched an investigation into Erling Haaland. This came after a temporary staff member, working as the club’s alien mascot “Moonbeam,” accused the striker of causing her concussion and whiplash. According to The Sun, the incident occurred before City’s Premier League match against Southampton back in October 2023.

The woman, who wants to remain anonymous, claimed fhat she felt two blows to the back of her head when she was posing for a picture. Initially she believed that she had been struck by a stray football. However, she later realized that Haaland had playfully knocked her on the head before leaning on it.

That’s Moonchester, the Man City Mascot!

Me, Moonchester and Moonbeam #MCFC #ManCity pic.twitter.com/qpDT6oWfFR
— Rachel Doyle 🐝 (@Rachel_Doyle72) April 15, 2023

Even though she continued her shift, she began vomiting and even experienced neck pain later. Seeing this, City’s first-team doctor advised her to seek medical attention. Reportedly, she visited Salford Royal Hospital, where A&E notes confirmed her symptoms.

However, a CT scan showed no damage. She subsequently reported the incident to Greater Manchester Police. However, after investigation, authorities determined that Haaland had not acted with malice. Man City took it upon themselves to investigate the matter as well.

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City’s Investigation and Response

The club conducted their own internal investigation following the matter. They reviewed the CCTV footage of the incident. However, they ultimately found no evidence to support the claim that Haaland caused the woman’s injuries. A City spokesperson later talked to The Sun, saying:

“Manchester City refute the complaint that was made in this regard. 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 footage reportedly showed that Haaland performed a “gentle touch on the back or head” of the mascot. It’s a gesture he usually makes toward the club’s matchday characters. The investigation ultimately concluded that he only “grazed” her which contradicted her claims of a forceful impact.

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The woman later returned to her role in City’s ticket office but she had to reapply for her position. She went through a half-day interview, but was later informed in December that her contract would not be renewed. She accused the club of covering up the incident and stated:

“I’m sure Erling would have apologized to me if they had given him the chance. But they just wanted to sweep it under the carpet.”

The incident is now in the rearview mirror as both Haaland and Man City look to improve performance this season. Haaland continues to shine with 29 goals in all competitions this season. However, Man City are currently struggling.

Erling Haaland

Man City

Manchester City

Premier League

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.