Flaco López denies changing his celebration, brushes off controversy | OneFootball

Striker Flaco López issued an official statement through his press office to clarify questions about his celebration after scoring a goal for Palmeiras against Vasco this Thursday, in a match for the 2026 Brasileirão. In a statement released this Friday, the player affirmed that there was no change in his traditional gesture—mimicking the initials of his name (JL)—and dismissed the existence of any dispute or rivalry off the field with Jesse Lingard, new signing of Corinthians.

Photo: Cesar Greco/Palmeiras

The gesture is part of the striker’s personal brand

Unlike what he had been doing, Flaco celebrated the goal with his arms crossed in Rio de Janeiro. According to the statement, he has used different forms of celebration throughout his career, but continues to adopt the “JL” gesture. The Argentine emphasized that this celebration is recurring and was once again used, including in the most recent match against Vasco.

Focus remains on the field

The statement also highlights that the striker does not take responsibility for statements made by third parties nor for external interpretations that do not come directly from him or his team. Furthermore, the player says that “he does not support rivalries outside the four lines, especially those fueled by posts on social media.”

Understand what happened

The discussion began when Jesse Lingard mentioned the rival during his presentation at Corinthians.

In a press conference, the attacking midfielder allowed Flaco to imitate the celebration, but stated that he “did it first” before the Palmeiras striker, and therefore the celebration would belong to him.

“I saw this on social media. Maybe he [Flaco López] has seen me doing it, his initials are also J and L. He can imitate me. I did it first, but he can keep doing it. This celebration will always be mine,” said Lingard.

Flaco’s statement in full

In response to the questions raised on social media and in the sports press after Flaco López’s goal celebration, we clarify that there was no change in his way of celebrating.

The player has performed other types of celebrations at different times, but continues to use the “JL” gesture, referring to José López, as one of his personal trademarks when celebrating his achievements. In fact, this celebration was repeated in yesterday’s match against Vasco.

We emphasize that, on Flaco López’s part, there is no dispute related to the celebration. The player does not take responsibility for statements made by third parties, nor for external interpretations that do not come directly from him or his team.

We also reinforce that we do not support rivalries off the field, especially when fueled by posts seeking engagement and interaction, contributing to an unhealthy environment.

Flaco López remains focused on his professional goals, his achievements, and competition within the four lines.

Quattro G Press Office

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.