Leeds United supporters believe Erling Haaland made a subtle nod to his Leeds roots during Manchester City's Champions League win over Galatasaray. The striker, born in Leeds while his father Alf-Inge played for the club, scored in City's victory that secured their place in the knockout stages.
After finding the net, Haaland beat his fist against his chest in a gesture that fans interpreted as the famous Leeds salute. The celebration took place in front of the travelling Galatasaray supporters, a club deeply disliked at Elland Road following the tragic deaths of two Leeds fans, Kevin Speight and Christopher Loftus, before a UEFA Cup semi-final in 2000.
One fan said: 'Right in front of their fans and all. MOT.' Another added: 'He knows EXACTLY what he’s doing there. Love the man.' A third commented: 'He's Leeds and he knows it.'
Haaland has previously shown respect for Leeds, declining to celebrate when he scored against them. He said: 'I was born in Leeds and have respect for the club. Mom and dad was at the stadium. That is special.' He also revealed he owned a Leeds kit as a child and once told Northern Ireland's Stuart Dallas, after swapping shirts, 'Marching on together!'
In 2019, while at Red Bull Salzburg, Haaland stated: 'The dream is to win the Premier League with Leeds.' Since then, he has won the Premier League twice and the Champions League with Manchester City.
