Video: Arshavin sparks controversy after Kane wins Ballon d'Or

Photo: Sky News Arabia

Russian player Andrey Arshavin, the former star of Arsenal, faced a wave of criticism and mockery from football fans after his reaction to English striker Harry Kane winning the Ballon d'Or.

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A video widely circulated shows Arshavin sticking out his tongue, a gesture some interpreted as a sign of disgust or discontent, just moments after Brazilian legend Ronaldo announced Kane's name as the award winner.

The clip quickly became a topic of discussion and ridicule among football fans, who criticized the former Russian player's reaction.

Several of Kane's supporters on social media expressed their dissatisfaction with Arshavin's behavior during the ceremony.

One commenter sarcastically noted about the former Russian player's scoring record: "He rarely scored ten goals or more in a season, so he might be feeling jealous."

Another fan wrote, in a sarcastic comment: "Collect his tears in a bottle and send them to Kane."

A different supporter of Kane remarked on Arshavin's behavior, saying: "This proves he lacks class."

Kane, who is 33 years old, received the Ballon d'Or in recognition of an exceptional season in which he scored 73 goals in 65 matches for his club and country, leading Bayern Munich to a domestic double in the league and cup.

Regarding his achievement, Kane said: "I would say it's a dream come true, but it surpasses even my wildest dreams. It's unbelievable."

He added: "I think this is a great achievement for England and our country. Holding the ceremony here in London was a good omen for me, and it has been a long time coming. Bringing England back to the forefront and bringing this trophy here makes me extremely proud."

Arshavin, who is 45 years old, was among a group of football stars who traveled to the British capital London to attend the annual Ballon d'Or ceremony held at the famous "London Palladium" theater.

Arshavin witnessed the moment when Kane was announced as the winner of the prestigious award, making the Bayern Munich forward and England international the first English player to win the Ballon d'Or in 25 years.

A video widely circulated shows Arshavin sticking out his tongue, a gesture some interpreted as a sign of disgust or discontent, just moments after Brazilian legend Ronaldo announced Kane's name as the award winner.

The clip quickly became a topic of discussion and ridicule among football fans, who criticized the former Russian player's reaction.

Several of Kane's supporters on social media expressed their dissatisfaction with Arshavin's behavior during the ceremony.

One commenter sarcastically noted about the former Russian player's scoring record: "He rarely scored ten goals or more in a season, so he might be feeling jealous."

Another fan wrote, in a sarcastic comment: "Collect his tears in a bottle and send them to Kane."

A different supporter of Kane remarked on Arshavin's behavior, saying: "This proves he lacks class."

Kane, who is 33 years old, received the Ballon d'Or in recognition of an exceptional season in which he scored 73 goals in 65 matches for his club and country, leading Bayern Munich to a domestic double in the league and cup.

Regarding his achievement, Kane said: "I would say it's a dream come true, but it surpasses even my wildest dreams. It's unbelievable."

He added: "I think this is a great achievement for England and our country. Holding the ceremony here in London was a good omen for me, and it has been a long time coming. Bringing England back to the forefront and bringing this trophy here makes me extremely proud."