Marcus Rashford is in top form and considered one of the most talented players in the Premier League, if not in all of Europe. The Manchester United striker has been on a scoring spree, netting 10 goals in just 10 games since returning from the World Cup, a remarkable improvement from last season. Rashford is a rare breed of player, possessing the ability to score at any given moment, in any style, from any part of the field. He is truly a force to be reckoned with on the pitch.
Marcus Rashford’s recent surge in form has been accompanied by a consistent goal celebration. After every goal he scores, he runs to a corner flag, stands still, sometimes closes his eyes, and points his index finger to his temple.
This celebration, which began after Rashford’s winner against Wolverhampton Wanderers on New Year’s Eve, has become his trademark, reminiscent of Alan Shearer’s raised hand, Gareth Bale’s ‘heart’ gesture, and Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘siu.’ However, the meaning behind Rashford’s celebration is shrouded in mystery and he has kept tight-lipped about it, even when questioned by United’s in-house media team.
Despite suggestions that he copied Aurelien Tchouameni’s celebration, Rashford’s gesture originated between him and his close friends and relates to tuning out external noise and finding focus. This newfound focus has translated into breathtaking form and, with United’s congested schedule, his celebration has been seen twice a week and broadcast to millions around the world.
Tammy Abraham and Danny Welbeck have joined a growing list of players who have copied Marcus Rashford’s goal celebration. Abraham performed the celebration after scoring an equalizer in Roma’s draw with AC Milan and Welbeck used it after scoring Brighton’s third goal in their win over Liverpool.
Welbeck discussed the celebration with Rashford before using it as a show of solidarity with another locally-born academy graduate. The celebration has now spread to European football with Joshua Kimmich copying it after scoring for Bayern Munich and Joelinton doing the same after scoring for Newcastle in a Carabao Cup semi-final match. These players are among many who have imitated Rashford’s celebration, which he uses after every goal he scores.
