Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhaes has sparked a wave of controversy after mimicking Viktor Gyokeres’ iconic goal celebration following the Gunners’ dominant 5-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon in the Champions League. The incident could complicate Arsenal’s potential transfer pursuit of the striker, who is set to leave Sporting this summer.

Magalhaes, alongside teammate Bukayo Saka, copied Gyokeres’ signature celebration—interlocking their hands and covering their eyes—after the defender scored Arsenal’s third goal. However, Gyokeres, who first popularized the gesture with a mouth-covering twist that hints at Batman’s Bane, was not pleased. “He’s welcome to steal it if he can’t create his own celebration!” Gyokeres remarked in a post-match interview, acknowledging the fun of the moment but subtly expressing his displeasure.

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The issue escalated when former Arsenal player Freddie Ljungberg voiced his disapproval, calling Magalhaes’ actions “a bit disrespectful.” Ljungberg, working as a pundit for Viaplay, emphasized that the celebration is closely associated with Gyokeres and should have been left alone.

While Gyokeres maintained a lighthearted tone about the situation, his discomfort may affect Arsenal’s transfer plans. The club had already shown interest in the Swedish striker before the summer transfer window and are reportedly still eyeing him for a January move. However, the unintended disrespect could harm their efforts, as Gyokeres may feel slighted ahead of any potential deal.

The episode has brought additional attention to the striker’s future, with Premier League giants such as Chelsea and Manchester United also monitoring his situation. Arsenal will now need to carefully navigate this delicate issue if they wish to secure Gyokeres’ services in the upcoming transfer window.