Manchester City striker Erling Haaland was the subject of a police complaint after allegedly striking a club mascot during a matchday in 2024.
Incident With ‘Moonbeam’
The incident occurred ahead of City’s game against Southampton in October 2024. A woman working as the mascot ‘Moonbeam’ claimed Haaland struck her twice on the back of the head while posing for a photo.
The woman, who also worked in the club’s ticket office, alleged the striker’s actions left her with head and neck pain, vomiting, and required a hospital visit the next day on the advice of the club doctor.
No Further Action by Police
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that a complaint had been received, but no further action was taken following a review of the evidence.
Manchester City also launched an internal investigation and said:
“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.”
A club spokesperson said footage showed Haaland only “grazing” the mascot’s head, something he was known to do in a light-hearted, affectionate manner.
Alleged Symptoms After the Match
The woman said she was “pretty upset” and left in shock following the incident.
“I was crying and my head was thudding,” she said. “I later realised he’d come behind me and hit me on the head and then leaned on my head.”
Scans conducted at Salford Royal A&E found no physical injuries, though symptoms of discomfort were recorded by medical staff.
Temporary Role Not Renewed
The woman’s contract, which began in June 2024, was not renewed when it expired in December. She expressed frustration at the club’s handling of her complaint, saying:
“I’m sure Erling would have apologised to me if they had given him the chance. But they just wanted to sweep it under the carpet.”
Haaland’s Career at City
Haaland, 25, has become a footballing icon since signing with Manchester City in 2022. He has scored 118 goals in 136 appearances, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and Champions League.
In January, he signed a new nine-and-a-half-year contract, tying him to the club until 2034.
