Firmino Disagrees With Roy Keane Over ‘Hugging And Kissing’ Comments
Roberto Firmino has expressed a difference of opinion with Roy Keane after the former Manchester United captain voiced his disapproval of Red Devils and Liverpool players exchanging pleasantries in the tunnel before kick-off last Sunday.
Players from the bitter rivals were spotted hugging and chatting heartedly before the crunchy game at Old Trafford which ended in a 1-1 draw after substitute Adam Lallana’s second half equalizer cancelled out Marcus Rashford’s first half opener.
Keane is no stranger to giving the opposition a hostile reception during his playing days and was constantly in conflict with former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira before, during and after big games.
Keane, appearing as a pundit on Sky Sports, was livid with the friendly banter from both camps and called them out for their actions.
“I’m disgusted with the players. You’re going to war, they’re hugging and kissing,” Keane said on Sky Sports.
“Don’t even look at the opposition. You’re going into battle against them.”
“Chat to them after the game, or don’t even chat to them after the game.”
But Firmino, who was seen in sociable company with Manchester United’s Brazilian contingent before the game, disagrees with Roy Keane’s pronouncements.
“I don’t want to create controversy with anyone,” Firmino told ESPN Brasil.
“I find it quite normal before the game to greet each other, ask how they are doing.
“That’s all. Nothing more than that. But on the pitch, they aren’t friends, each one defends his club to the best of his ability.
“Then the rivalry increases on the pitch.”
