Cristiano Ronaldo’s goal celebration against Everton was ‘a self-deprecating joke’ about how long the Manchester United star had slept.
The 37-year-old didn’t become a five-time Ballon D’or winner without making some adjustments to his lifestyle, one of which is that the Portuguese star takes naps several times a day.
While Ronaldo has endured a frustrating campaign for United this season, the striker reminded supporters he still has a lot to offer after scoring the winner in Sunday night’s 2-1 win over Everton at Goodison Park, the 700th club goal of his career.
Ronaldo came on in the first half for Erik ten Hag’s side and needed just 15 minutes to grab a pass from Casemiro before burying the effort past Jordan Pickford.
Rather than celebrating with its trademark “Siu!” celebration, Ronaldo and his new teammate Antony stood with their heads thrown back, eyes closed and fingers crossed in front of their chests.
As fans speculated what the celebration meant, United’s website said it all.
The club’s official website revealed: “We can now reveal that Ronaldo’s celebration was a self-deprecating joke with his teammates, underlining the strong bonds between the players in Erik ten Hag’s team.
“Of course, Cristiano is renowned for taking care of himself and making sure he’s always in the best possible condition, which naturally involves hours of hard work on the training ground and in the gym.
“It also includes resting at the right times and making sure he has enough sleep to aid his recovery: Ronaldo has been reported to take naps several times a day!
“CR7’s celebration at Everton was a fun nod to the position he sleeps in when traveling with the team, which hasn’t gone unnoticed by his teammates who are all eager to learn from him.”