Sporting Lisbon’s star striker Viktor Gyokeres has finally revealed the inspiration behind his unique goal celebration, putting years of speculation to rest.
Since joining Sporting from Coventry City in 2023 for £21 million, the Swedish forward has been in sensational form.
Under manager Ruben Amorim, Gyokeres has scored an astonishing 23 goals in 16 games this season, drawing interest from top clubs, including Manchester United.
Pay Attention: Get the best tips from our Bet of the Day
The Mask Celebration’s Comic Book Origin
After scoring, Gyokeres often locks his fingers together and holds them over his face, resembling a mask.
While fans and former teammates have speculated about the meaning—Coventry’s Josh Eccles humorously linked it to Hannibal Lecter—the striker has clarified the gesture’s origin.
In an Instagram post featuring a compilation of his goals, Gyokeres captioned it: “Nobody cared until I put on the mask.” as quoted by Sports Bible.
This iconic line is from Bane, the infamous DC Comics villain from Batman: Vengeance of Bane and The Dark Knight Rises.
Bane is renowned for his strength, intellect, and iconic mask, symbolizing resilience and intimidation—qualities Gyokeres likely channels in his performances on the pitch.
United Links and Gyokeres’ Response
Gyokeres’ red-hot form has fueled speculation about a move to Manchester United, particularly since Ruben Amorim’s appointment as their head coach. However, the Swedish international played down the rumors.
“He [Amorim] probably has some strikers there already, so we’ll see,” Gyokeres told reporters. “No, he hasn’t [contacted me]. It’s fun but nothing I attach any importance to because it’s talk and nothing concrete.”
With his Bane-inspired celebration and lethal finishing, Gyokeres has become one of Europe’s most exciting strikers, proving to be a formidable force at Sporting Lisbon. Whether he will don the “mask” at Old Trafford remains to be seen.
