Anime culture has found an unexpected home on the football pitch.
As goal celebrations become more personal and expressive, several players have turned to iconic anime moments to mark their biggest contributions, blending sport with pop culture in ways fans instantly recognise.
Antoine Griezmann channels Monkey D. Luffy’s Gear 2
Antoine Griezmann’s love for anime has long been part of his public identity, and he brought it to the spotlight during Atlético Madrid’s 5-0 win over Real Betis.
After scoring, Griezmann recreated Monkey D. Luffy’s Gear 2 pose from One Piece, a power-up moment associated with intensity and momentum. The celebration spread quickly online, reinforcing Griezmann’s reputation as football’s most visible anime fan.
Ibrahima Konaté recreates Attack on Titan salute
Ibrahima Konaté delivered a subtle but instantly recognisable anime nod during Liverpool’s 2022 clash with Manchester City.
After scoring, he performed the signature chest salute from Attack on Titan, a gesture tied to loyalty and resolve within the series. The celebration stood out for its simplicity, rewarding fans who spotted the reference.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang uses Goku’s Instant Transmission
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has long aligned his on-pitch persona with Dragon Ball, and he leaned into that identity during Barcelona’s 2022 meeting with Real Madrid.
Following his goal, Aubameyang struck Goku’s Instant Transmission pose, a fitting tribute given his pace and direct attacking style. The celebration added another chapter to his long-running anime theme.
Roony Bardghji marks first Barcelona goal with a Naruto tribute
Roony Bardghji chose a meaningful celebration for a landmark moment in December 2025.
After scoring his first-ever goal for Barcelona, the young winger performed Sasuke Uchiha’s Chidori hand motion from Naruto. The celebration symbolised ambition and raw energy, mirroring the significance of the breakthrough.
Dominic Solanke has built an anime celebration reputation
Dominic Solanke has arguably gone further than any other Premier League striker when it comes to anime-inspired celebrations.
During a Tottenham Hotspur match in 2024, he performed Eren Yeager’s hand-bite gesture from Attack on Titan. That moment followed a growing pattern, with Solanke previously referencing Goku’s Spirit Bomb, Sukuna’s Domain Expansion, and Gojo’s Domain Expansion.
Anime celebrations remain niche, but their influence is expanding. For players, they offer identity. For fans, they create moments that live well beyond the final whistle.
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