Erling Haaland fires Dominik Szoboszlai message after Liverpool star accused of 'disrespect'

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Manchester City's Erling Haaland aimed a quip at Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai after the Reds' 4-1 FA Cup victory over Barnsley. Liverpool secured their spot in the fourth round following a dominant display, with Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike joining the Hungarian on the scoresheet.

Arne Slot's men had to work hard against resilient League One opponents, requiring late strikes from substitutes Wirtz and Ekitike to put the match beyond reach. Szoboszlai had opened the scoring with another trademark thunderous effort before Frimpong made it two.

The midfielder suffered an embarrassing moment when his attempted backheel inside his own six-yard area went awry, gifting Adam Phillips a goal to pull one back. The Tykes gained momentum and appealed for a penalty when Reyes Cleary tumbled under Szoboszlai's challenge, but the referee waved play on.

Haaland, who drew a blank in City's 10-1 thrashing of Exeter City in their third-round fixture, spotted the amusing side of Szoboszlai's subdued reaction.

Taking to Snapchat, the Norwegian noticed a distinctly downcast Szoboszlai despite his stunning goal.

Haaland captured footage of the Hungarian's understated celebrations before adding a caption that said: "Domi what a goal smile a bit."

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Szoboszlai, however, did celebrate the goal, seemingly paying tribute to Mohamed Salah , who is currently participating in the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt, by mimicking the 33-year-old's iconic celebration after his spectacular goal against Chelsea in 2019.

The midfielder has faced criticism for his role in Barnsley's only goal of the night.

Tykes manager Connor Hourihane accused the Hungarian of showing disrespect towards the lower league opposition, arguing that Szoboszlai wouldn't engage in such antics in a high-stakes Premier League or Champions League match.

He said: "I'm a little bit disappointed with their player if I'm honest. I thought it was a bit disrespectful.

"I don't think he does that against Chelsea, or Arsenal in a Champions League game. Unbelievable little feeling and buzz for Adam obviously, but a little bit of lack of respect from their player to be honest."

Szoboszlai was previously accused of disrespect during Liverpool's 3-0 victory over Manchester United last season when he chose to showboat as the Reds were pushing for a fourth goal.

Slot refused to comment on the incident in question on Monday, acknowledging it was a " weird " decision, but the Dutchman stated the issue would be discussed privately.

He said: "I don't think you should do that in a Premier League game, League Cup game, friendly game or a training session.