More stories

  • in

    What is Christopher Nkunku’s ‘balloon’ goal celebration? France & Chelsea star’s goal salute explained

    CHRISTOPHER Nkunku is a French professional football player who plays for Chelsea FC?But what is the football star’s rather unique way of celebrating, when he scores a goal?Christopher started using a blue balloon when he joined ChelseaCredit: Getty ImagesWhat does Christopher Nkunku’s ‘balloon’ celebration mean?Christopher thrilled fans when he brandished and inflated a balloon, after scoring.It was a stunning moment that left fans bewildered.“The balloon was for my son. He likes balloons,” Christopher explained after the game. How else does Christopher Nkunku celebrate goals?Normally, Christopher uses a red balloon to celebrate scoring a goal. Read more in goal celebrationsHowever, since switching over to Chelsea, Christopher has switched the colour of the balloon he celebrates with. Now, Christopher uses a blue balloon to celebrate scoring and to represent his team.His fellow teammates Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson each have their own way of celebrating when they score a goal.How long has Christopher Nkunku been at Chelsea and what other teams has he played for?Christopher signed to Chelsea in June 2023, in a deal reportedly worth £53 million.Most read in FootballBefore this, he represented France at an under-16, under-19, under-20 and an under-21 level.He was a graduate of the Paris Saint-Germain Academy and began playing professionally for the team in 2015. Next, he went to RB Leipzig in a €13 million deal. He stayed with RB Leipzig until he joined Chelsea FC.Changes to the Premier League for 2024/25NOTHING stays the same forever.And that includes the Premier League, which is making a number of tweaks this season.Team news will now be released 75 MINUTES before kick-off, 15 minutes earlier than had been the case before.Things could get crowded on the touchline, with the number of substitutes permitted to warm-up boosted from three players per team to FIVE.There’s also a change to how added time is calculated when a team scores a goal, an update to the ‘multiball’ system and the introduction of semi-automated offsides – but not straight away.Go here to read about all the changes to the Premier League for 2024/25. More

  • in

    What is Pedro Neto’s goal celebration?

    PEDRO Neto is one of the newest members of Chelsea FC’s team, but he has quickly made his mark.But who is the footballer and has he come up with his own goal celebration?Pedro signed with Chelsea in 2024Credit: GettyWhen did Pedro Neto join Chelsea and what other teams has he played for?Pedro is a Portuguese footballer who has played with several clubs in his career.He signed with the Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2019 and made his first league goal for them in October 2020. However, an ankle injury in October 2022 sidelined him for five months.After this, he signed to Chelsea on August 11, 2024, in a deal reportedly worth £51.3 million. Read more in goal celebrationsWhat is Pedro Neto’s goal celebration?Although Pedro is too new to Chelsea to have established his own celebration, he has certainly made it memorable when he has scored goals in the past.When he scored one goal, Pedro held his hands to his ear and shouted, before waving his arms around. It was a gesture that showed just how overjoyed he was to score a goal. Will Pedro Neto be joining Chelsea at the Premier League?Pedro plays with Chelsea at the Premiere League. Most read in FootballHe made his debut with the team on August 18, 2024, when Chelsea lost 2-0 to Manchester City. He is joined by fellow teammates Cole Palmer, known for his “cold” goal celebration, and Nicolas Jackson, who imitates Cristiano Ronaldo’s celebration.Football goal celebrationsScoring a goal is an impressive feat and each footballer has a unique way of celebrating when they score. Here are some of the most iconic goal celebrations in football: More

  • in

    What is Nicolas Jackson’s goal celebration?

    NICOLAS Jackson has made a name for himself in British football, despite joining Chelsea in 2023.But who is the footballer and what is his famous goal celebration?Nicolas is a Ronaldo super-fanCredit: GettyWho is Nicolas Jackson?Nicolas is Senegalese professional footballer, who quickly began to make a name for himself.He represented Senegal at an under-20 level, after being called up in 2018.In 2023, he signed an 8-year deal, reportedly worth £32 million, to join Chelsea FC.What is Nicolas Jackson’s goal celebration?Nicolas is an admitted Cristiano Ronaldo super-fan, so he isn’t shy about imitating his idol. Read more in goal celebrationsWhen Nicolas scored an impressive hat-trick, while playing for Chelsea, he adopted Ronaldo’s infamous “siu” celebration. Ronaldo is known to shout “siu” when he scores. “Siu” is derived from “si”, which means “yes” in Spanish. Nicolas isn’t the only Chelsea player with a famous goal celebration. Most read in FootballFellow Chelsea player Cole Palmer is well-known for his “cold” celebration.How many goals has Nicolas Jackson scored for Chelsea?Nicolas scored 14 goals in 35 appearances at the 2023-24 Premier League, despite heavy criticism during his first season at Chelsea. This made him the second highest African goal scorer during that season, behind Mohamed Salah.In 2023, he also scored a hat trick against Tottenham Spurs which thrilled fans.Football goal celebrationsScoring a goal is an impressive feat and each footballer has a unique way of celebrating when they score. Here are some of the most iconic goal celebrations in football: More

  • in

    What is Harvey Barnes’ goal celebration?

    HARVEY Barnes is the Newcastle United winger with one of the most unique goal celebrations in football.But what is his winning move and how many goals has he scored?Harvey often shoots an “arrow” into the crowd to celebrateCredit: Getty ImagesHarvey first played for Leicester CityCredit: AP: Associated PressWho is Harvey Barnes?Harvey is a Premier League footballer, born in Leicestershire. He joined Leicester City FC at the age of nine, before he signed a professional contract at the age of 16. In 2023, he was signed to Newcastle United for five years. Although his fee was undisclosed, it was reportedly worth £38 million.Read more in goal celebrationsHe plays alongside fan-favourites Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson.What is Harvey Barnes’ goal celebration?Many footballers have a special celebration for when they score a goal. Harvey’s celebration is particularly unique, as he mimics firing an arrow into the crowd. Eagle-eyed fans that spot him making his move often “return” the arrow back to him, by copying his bow-and-arrow celebration. Most read in FootballHow many goals has Harvey Barnes scored for Newcastle?In total, Harvey has scored five goals for Newcastle United at the Premier League. He scored all five of these goals at the Premier League 2023, as he failed to score any at the Premier League 2024.However, he has scored 70 goals overall in his career, since first playing for Leicester City in 2016.Football goal celebrationsScoring a goal is an impressive feat and each footballer has a unique way of celebrating when they score. Here are some of the most iconic goal celebrations in football: More

  • in

    What does Jhon Duran’s goal celebration mean?

    JHON Duran is one of Colombia’s brightest young football talents, making waves in the Premier League with Aston Villa after a meteoric rise from Envigado and Chicago Fire.His intriguing goal celebration after a crucial winner against West Ham left fans wondering about his future and the message behind his actions.Jhon Duran joined the Premier League in 2023Credit: AlamyWho is Jhon Duran?Jhon Jader Durán Palacio is a Colombian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Aston Villa in the Premier League and the Colombia national team. Jhon began his professional career with Envigado, a Colombian club, making his debut at just 15 years old on February 13, 2019, in the Copa Colombia. He quickly made a name for himself by scoring his first goal on September 1, 2019, making him the second-youngest scorer in the history of Colombia’s top league, Categoría Primera A.In January 2021, Chicago Fire, a Major League Soccer (MLS) club, signed Jhon from Envigado on a three-year deal.read more on Jhon DuranHe made his debut for Chicago Fire on February 26, 2022, and scored his first goal for the club on May 14, 2022.His performances in MLS caught the attention of European clubs.On January 16, 2023, Aston Villa announced his signing.The transfer fee was reported to be an initial £14.75 million, with potential add-ons.Most read in FootballJhon made his Premier League debut on February 4, 2023, and scored his first goal for the club on August 20, 2023, in a match against Everton.He represented Colombia at the under-17 level and made his senior international debut on September 24, 2022, against Guatemala.What does Jhon Duran’s goal celebration mean?Jhon pointed to his chestCredit: AFPThen to the groundCredit: PAAnd hold up his hands in an apologetic gesture to celebrate his goal against West HamCredit: PAJhon Duran’s goal celebration after scoring the winner for Aston Villa against West Ham seems to carry a deeper message related to his uncertain future and past behavior.During the celebration, Jhon pointed to his chest and then to the ground in front of the Villa fans before holding up his hands in an apologetic gesture.This symbolic celebration appeared to express an acknowledgment of his recent actions and the speculation surrounding his potential transfer away from the club.Journalist Gregg Evans has provided his thoughts on Jhon celebration, saying on the 1874 podcast: “His celebration felt like: ‘If I’m playing, if I’m getting the minutes and I’m scoring goals, I’m here’ and that’s what he was doing.“And he was doing it in front of the Villa fans and I think he was almost trying to say ‘I’m sorry for what happened over the summer, it was a little bit silly of me but I’m here at Villa now’.“And if that’s the case come September 2nd let’s see and I think he’ll be quite fun to watch if he stays at Villa.”Another Aston Villa player with a unique goal celebration is John McGinn.His signature move involves turning his hands and making circular gestures around his eyes with his fingers.READ MORE SUN STORIESHow many goals has Jhon Duran scored for Aston Villa?As of August 2024, Jhon Durán has scored a total of 9 goals for Aston Villa in competitive matches.In total, throughout his club career, he has scored 27 goals across all competitions and clubs. More

  • in

    What is Riccardo Calafiori’s goal celebration?

    RICCARDO Calafiori may be a new name to some Arsenal fans, but his journey to the Premier League is one worth knowing.From overcoming a serious injury to establishing himself as a top defender, and even creating a unique goal celebration, there’s much more to discover about this rising Italian star.Riccardo Calafiori is a new addition to the Arsenal teamCredit: GettyWho is Riccardo Calafiori?Riccardo Calafiori is an Italian professional footballer born on May 19, 2002. He plays as a defender, primarily for Premier League club Arsenal and the Italy national team.Riccardo began his career at Roma, signing his first contract in 2018. Despite suffering a serious knee injury in 2018, he made a notable debut in Serie A in August 2020, contributing to a win against Juventus.read more on ArsenalRiccardo told Roma TV about his injury: “The journey was definitely the hardest thing I faced.“I had a knee that was three times the size of the other one, I had a fever, and I felt insecure.”He scored his first professional goal in December 2020 during a UEFA Europa League match.Riccardo spent part of the 2021-2022 season on loan at Genoa.Most read in FootballIn August 2022, he joined Basel on a permanent deal and played under head coach Alexander Frei.Returning to Serie A in August 2023, Riccardo signed with Bologna, where he adapted to a centre-back role under Thiago Motta. His standout performances, including scoring twice against Juventus, helped Bologna qualify for the UEFA Champions League.In July 2024, he signed a five year deal with Arsenal, marking a significant move to the Premier League.Riccardo made his debut for the Italy U21 team in September 2021. He received his first call-up to the senior team in May 2024 and made his debut in June 2024 during a friendly against Turkey. He was included in Italy’s squad for UEFA Euro 2024.Arsenal confirm £42m Riccardo Calafiori transfer from Bologna after defender passes medical and joins squad in the USWhat is Riccardo Calafiori’s goal celebration?Riccardo’s future goal celebration involves a tribute to his home countryCredit: GettyRiccardo Calafiori has hinted at a unique and playful goal celebration for his time at Arsenal. During a media day, he was asked about his goal celebration and admitted that he didn’t have one planned. He was then asked to consider his favourite food for inspiration.Riccardo has devised a celebration that charmingly mimics twirling spaghetti around a fork, offering a delightful nod to traditional Italian cuisine.At Arsenal, several players are known for their distinctive goal celebrations.READ MORE SUN STORIESGabriel Jesus often celebrates with mimic holding a phone to his ear after scoring, while Bukayo Saka has been known to hold the corner flag. Meanwhile, Martin Ødegaard frequently places his hands over his ears as part of his celebration. More

  • in

    What is Mikel Merino’s goal celebration and what does it mean?

    MIKEL Merino’s journey from Osasuna’s youth ranks to becoming a pivotal player for Spain and Real Sociedad is nothing short of inspiring.His story takes a turn with a heartfelt tribute to his father during a dramatic Euro 2024 moment—discover how this personal connection has shaped his remarkable career.Mikel Merino has an impressive career behind him and with that many goal celebrationsCredit: GettyWho is Mikel Merino?Mikel Merino Zazón is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Real Sociedad in La Liga and the Spain national team.Mikel began his football journey at Amigó before joining Osasuna’s youth ranks. He made his senior debut for Osasuna’s first team in August 2014 and scored his first professional goal in December of that year. Over the next couple of seasons, he became a key player for Osasuna, helping them reach the promotion play-offs in 2016.read more on mikel merinoIn February 2016, Mikel signed with Borussia Dortmund, but his impact was limited, and he struggled to secure a regular spot. In July 2017, he joined Newcastle United on loan, with the deal turning permanent later that year.During his time at Newcastle, he made 25 appearances and scored one goal.Mikel moved to Real Sociedad in July 2018.Most read in FootballHe has been instrumental in the team’s midfield and captained the side on several occasions. Mikel has represented Spain at various youth levels, winning the UEFA European Under-19 Championship in 2015 and the Under-21 Championship in 2019.In September 2020, he made his senior debut and played a key role in Spain’s Euro 2024 campaign, including scoring a crucial goal in the quarter-final against Germany.Spain went on to win the tournament, adding to their record of European championships.Mikel is set to sign a four-year deal with Arsenal worth over £33m.Arsenal has finalised the deal with Real Sociedad.Why does Mikel Merino run around the corner flag after scoring?Mikel marked his celebration with a tribute to his fatherCredit: GettyMikel Merino’s corner flag celebration after scoring Spain’s goal against Germany in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals was a touching homage to his father, Ángel Miguel Merino Torres. He mirrored his father’s iconic celebration from 1991, when Ángel performed the same gesture at the Stuttgart Arena while playing for Osasuna. The recreation of this celebration, in the same stadium and under similar circumstances, connected a memorable moment from Ángel’s career with Mikel’s achievements, adding a deeply personal layer to his dramatic late winner.In a post-interview he said: “This stadium has something.“I’ll remember this for ever. And on top of it all, it happened here.”A cycle closes which makes me happy. I played my first Spain game in this stadium and my dad scored here.”His father told Cope, a Spanish radio, about the moment: “We had talked about this subject because he is determined to leave me behind.”He has done many more things than me but this was the only thing I had left and he is determined to leave me behind again. “He had not told me but we talked about that coincidence. “I did not care at all and we had a laugh after the game. “He told me ‘another goal in Stuttgart, like you’.”I am super proud of his behaviour, the minutes he played.READ MORE SUN STORIES”I was emotional, it was special. I had tears in my eyes.” It was such an important moment… they were on a high and their arrows were pointing upwards .” More

  • in

    Amad Diallo goal celebration: Why does the Man Utd winger cover his eye when he scores?

    AMAD Diallo’s journey from a young talent in Abidjan to a key player for Manchester United is nothing short of extraordinary. Discover how his emotional goal celebration honours a late friend and why his career trajectory has captivated fans around the world.Amad Diallo has a special way to celebrate his goalsCredit: ReutersWho is Amad Diallo?Amad Diallo was born on July 11, 2002, in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, and is an Ivorian professional footballer who plays as a winger or midfielder. He is currently with Manchester United in the Premier League and represents the Ivory Coast national team.Amad emigrated to Italy at a young age and began his football career at Boca Barco’s youth team. He was highly impressive in youth tournaments, which led to his move to Atalanta’s youth academy in 2015.read more on amad dialloAmad progressed through Atalanta’s youth ranks and made his Serie A debut in October 2019, becoming the first player born in 2002 to score in Italy’s top flight. He also made appearances in the UEFA Champions League during his time with Atalanta.In January 2021, Amad signed with Manchester United for a fee that could rise to €40 million. He had a promising start, scoring on his debut for the U-23 team and making his senior debut soon after. Most read in FootballHis time with United included loan spells at Rangers and Sunderland. Amad returned to Manchester United’s first team in December 2023 and scored significant goals, including a memorable FA Cup quarter-final winner against Liverpool in March 2024.He made his senior international debut for Ivory Coast in March 2021 and scored his first international goal in June 2021. He also represented Ivory Coast at the 2020 Summer Olympics.Why does Amad Diallo cover his eye when he scores?Amad is honouring his friend in his celebrationCredit: GettyAmad Diallo’s goal celebration, where he covers his right ear and left eye, is a tribute to his late friend and former Atalanta teammate, Willy Braciano Ta Bi. Willy Ta Bi passed away in February 2021 due to liver cancer.The celebration is a way for Amad to honour Willy’s memory. He said in an interview for Manchester United: “My first thought was… mamma mia!”I have scored a goal in a United shirt! I couldn’t believe it. “My second thought was for Willy.”Willy Braciano Ta Bi, my former team-mate, had died a couple of weeks earlier. “Willy was a good friend of mine, another Ivorian in the youth team at Atalanta, and he had always showed me a specific goal celebration and he said that when he scored his first goal for the Atalanta first-team, that was how he was going to celebrate.“So, as soon as I scored against Milan, that came into my mind. Celebrate like Willy.”So I did his celebration. I wanted to remember him like that.”I had to remember my good friend.” It was a very emotional moment for me, as well as being a great moment in my career.”Amad is not alone in his distinctive goal celebrations; many footballers have their own unique rituals. For instance, Bruno Fernandes often performs his “I can’t hear you” celebration by covering both of his ears, Marcus Rashford points to his head, Rasmus Højlund plays an air guitar, and Kobbie Mainoo salutes the crowd and blows kisses after scoring.READ MORE SUN STORIESHow many goals has Amad Diallo scored for Manchester United?As of August 2024, Amad Diallo has scored a total of 4 goals for Manchester United.He also netted 3 goals during his loan spell at Rangers and added 14 goals while on loan at Sunderland. More