Arsenal defender Gabriel has explained his decision to recreate Aston Villa midfielder Amadou Onana’s signature celebration following a crucial Premier League victory at the Emirates.
Gabriel Claims “Good Fun” Behind Onana Celebration Mimicry After Arsenal Win
The Brazilian centre-back caught cameras’ attention after the final whistle, sealing a decisive win that halted Villa’s impressive eleven-game winning streak.
In a clear mimicry, Gabriel placed three fingers into his pocket and zipped it shut, a gesture widely understood to symbolise securing the three league points.
This act directly referenced Onana’s own celebration, which became familiar during Villa’s recent run of form.
The moment quickly sparked discussion online, with many viewing it as a pointed response to the pre-match confidence surrounding the visitors.
However, Gabriel insisted there was no malice behind the action. When asked about the gesture, the defender framed it as motivational and light-hearted.
“Yes, like I told you, we’ll get the three points, no? Those sort of things spur you on,” Gabriel stated on Metro Sports.
“It’s good fun. It’s fun for them, it’s fun for us as well.”
He directly addressed any suggestion of a personal slight towards Onana, adding,
“It was not to get them back or to get Onana back. I know he’s a good guy. So, yes, no fighting, nothing. Just something to celebrate.”
This is not the first time Gabriel has mirrored an opponent’s celebration after an Arsenal win, having previously done so following a victory over Sporting Lisbon.
His latest imitation served as a triumphant bookend to a match that firmly reasserted Arsenal’s title credentials, with the defender emphasising that the focus remains solely on his team’s achievement and the enjoyment of a significant result.
