Wayne Rooney criticizes England's 'too early' celebrations after Mexico win
Translated from Icelandic, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Former England captain Wayne Rooney criticized the English team's excessive celebration after their 3-2 victory against Mexico in the round of 16.
- Rooney, now a BBC pundit, felt the celebrations, including a video posted by the FA showing players dancing, were "a bit too much" and premature.
- Spanish player Cesar Azpilicueta disagreed, stating that such moments should be enjoyed, especially after a difficult match against the host nation, emphasizing the need for balance.
England legend Wayne Rooney has voiced criticism regarding the English team's celebrations following their hard-fought 3-2 victory over hosts Mexico in the round of 16. The former captain, now working as a pundit for the BBC, found the players' post-match jubilation to be excessive.
I'm a bit more old school. I know you have to enjoy a win, but I feel this is a bit too early.
Following the win, a video emerged on social media showing jubilant scenes in the England dressing room, including player John Stones playfully feigning injury before joining in a dance. Rooney, reflecting on the footage, stated, "I'm a bit more old school. I know you have to enjoy a win, but I feel this is a bit too early." He suggested the celebrations were premature for a team still progressing through the tournament.
However, Rooney's view was not shared by all. Spanish player Cesar Azpilicueta, who has experience playing in England, offered a different perspective. Azpilicueta argued that after playing such a challenging match against the host nation in a high-pressure environment, the players deserved to enjoy the moment. "When you have played games like this against the hosts, in this atmosphere, you have to enjoy it," he said.
When you have played games like this against the hosts, in this atmosphere, you have to enjoy it.
Azpilicueta emphasized the importance of balance in a footballer's career, stating, "Life is about balance, football is about balance." He added that after celebrating, the team would refocus and prepare for their next challenge. England is scheduled to face Norway in the quarterfinals next Saturday.
Life is about balance, football is about balance.
Originally published by Morgunblaรฐiรฐ in Icelandic. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.