“It surprised me” – Sergi Gomez criticizes Manchester City teammate Cole Palmer’s celebrations at the U21 European Championship Final
Manchester City youngster Cole Palmer was the star for England at the U21 European Championship final against Spain. A part of the England side that did not concede a single goal in the tournament, Palmer was the difference maker in the finals.
Toward the end of the first half, Palmer hit a free kick that took a massive deflection and went inside the net. This goal was the only goal scored in the match. While the goal helped England clinch its first trophy in 39 years, the celebrations by Palmer and his team drew criticism.
Palmer’s Manchester City teammate Sergi Gomez who was in the Spanish side on the night of the finals, criticized Palmer’s actions. He expressed disappointment that the Englishman did not apologize for his actions. Gomez said:
"“It surprised me. “He [Palmer] didn’t want to apologise or anything like some of his other teammates. I don’t know, I would have celebrated it in a different way, and my teammates would have done it in a different way as well. We have tried to represent our country in the best possible way and have the utmost respect for all our rivals. They wanted to celebrate it like this and also after the missed penalty.”"
By his words, it is not hard to guess that Gomez is highly disappointed by the act of his teammate. However, considering they are professional, both young footballers will look to put this incident behind them.
Manchester City Star Cole Palmer agreed his celebration might have been over the top
While Sergi Gomez was quick to express his frustration about Palmer’s celebration, the latter did not deny it. After the game, he agreed that his celebration might have been a bit over the top. Palmer said:
"“I was a bit frustrated because the game, well, the way they were going down and screaming and stuff. So obviously when I scored, I just, the celebration might have been a bit over-the-top, but I’m just happy.”"
Based on Palmer’s statements, it is safe to assume that when he and Gomez meet on City’s training ground, things between them will be fine. Both Palmer and Gomez are bright talents and have a great future at the club.