Arsenal star Gabriel appeared to get his own back on Erling Haaland five months on from their previous coming together.
A horrendous mix-up in the City defence saw Martin Odegaard fire the Gunners ahead with just two minutes on the clock at the Emirates Stadium.
In contrast to the Etihad Stadium clash, it was Gabriel who got inside the head of his opponent.
Replays afterwards showed Gabriel screaming in the face of Haaland at the beginning of his celebration for the goal.
This was no doubt in reference to Haaland’s actions after City’s late equaliser in the 2-2 draw in September.
John Stones was the City saviour and Haaland celebrated excitedly by throwing the ball at Gunners defender Gabriel.
He was then spotted telling Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta to ‘stay humble’ at full-time as tensions boiled over.
The match was earmarked as a key clash in this season’s Premier League title race but City suffered a dramatic dip in form soon after.
Pep Guardiola’s side went on a run of just one win in nine league matches from November to December.
It saw them effectively fall out of contention for the title as they found themselves outside of the top four, let alone at the summit.
Arsenal on the other hand have maintained their challenge, although are still falling short of leaders Liverpool.
A win this weekend would put them six points behind the Reds, who have their game in hand against Everton on February 12.
