Why Paul Pogba's World Cup celebrations have upset some England supporters
France star Paul Pogba risked enraging England supporters with his World Cup celebrations in Russia.
The Manchester United midfielder netted a wonderful strike in the Les Bleus’ 4-2 victory over Croatia in the Luznikhi Stadium as he got his hands on the game’s richest prize.
He was spotted dabbing with the World Cup trophy on the pitch before repeating the dance move in the dressing room with Benjamin Mendy and French president Emmanuel Macron.
However, he later filmed himself on Instagram enjoying the victory in a way that might have angered a few England supporters still reeling from their semi-final heartbreak.
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Pogba chanted ‘it’s coming home’ while holding the trophy in the dressing room area in Moscow before quickly apologising to the camera.
France celebrate at the final whistle. (AP Photo/Petr David Josek)
The Lightning Seeds’ classic hit Three Lions, which features that famous line in its chorus, became a symbol of the tournament for Gareth Southgate’s side.
He’s not the first player to have mocked England for their adoption of the phrase this summer.
Croatia defender Vedran Corluka told the press ‘it’s not coming home’ after knocking out the England at the last-four stage.
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France’s Paul Pogba celebrates with the trophy. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko)
The Croatians, led by captain Luka Modric, were annoyed with what they felt was arrogance from the English by constantly singing the tune.
Former Three Lions striker Gary Lineker spoke out on Twitter to clarify the meaning behind the song.
He said: “Dear non-English football fans. Football’s coming home is a fun song highlighting the lack of success of our football team for decades.
“It’s coming home! Na respect, just kidding, just kidding, sorry, just kidding!” 😂😂😂 #mufc #pogba #WorldCupFinal2018 #worldcup #fra pic.twitter.com/xdOWarZFwr
— Man Utd Videos ⚽️🎦 (@ManUtdVines) July 15, 2018
“No one really thought we’d win it. I totally get why you might think it was arrogance, but it’s more our self-deprecatory sense of humour.”
Southgate and the England squad arrived back in the UK on Sunday afternoon after flying back into Birmingham Airport.
Three Lions supporters wanting to welcome the squad home were left disappointed after they were prevented access to the area.
Captain Harry Kane claimed the Golden Boot following his six goals in Russia.