Arsenal recently recorded another convincing win in the Champions League fixture, beating Sporting CP 5-1 in Lisbon. However, not all reactions to the game were positive. Former footballer and current sports analyst Micah Richards had some stern words for one Arsenal star over a recent incident.
The Gunners put on an impressive display against Sporting CP, possibly benefiting from the recent departure of Ruben Amorim to Manchester United. Just a few weeks earlier, Sporting had beaten Manchester City 4-1 at Estadio Jose Alvalade with prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres netting a clinical hat-trick.
However, there were no such problems for Arsenal as they managed to shut out one of Europe’s most in-form strikers. Despite this commendable performance by Mikel Arteta’s side, one player came under fire for his conduct after scoring in Lisbon.
Gabriel Magalhaes' controversial celebration
Micah Richards expressed his displeasure with Gabriel Magalhaes’ decision to mimic Gyokeres’ trademark celebration after scoring against Sporting on The Rest Is Football podcast. The Arsenal defender covered his eyes with interlocked fingers - an action that seemed like he was mocking Gyokeres' celebration.
Micah Richards, Manchester City legend, said:
"You don't need to do that,"
"Gabriel has been excellent, I don't quite agree with his Gyokeres celebration. We don't need to go there, mocking Gyokeres. He did the celebration when he scored the goal. I'm just like, you don't need to do that. Be the bigger person.”
While victories are important and worth celebrating, sportsmanship should always be at the forefront of any sport. Micah Richards' criticism serves as a reminder that respect for opponents is an integral part of the game. As fans and spectators, we can only hope that this incident will serve as a learning experience for all players involved.
