ionigeria.com Nigerian Newspaper (Online)
FRANCE ace Paul Pogba mirrored Cristiano Ronaldo’s Coca-Cola snub by removing a Heineken beer bottle during his press conference.
The devout Muslim moved the beverage from the table in front of him following France’s 1-0 win against Germany on Tuesday night.
Pogba, who made a religious pilgrimage to Mecca along with Kurt Zouma in 2018, refused to endorse one of Euro 2020’s official sponsors as alcohol is forbidden for Muslims.
The 28-year-old has become the latest star to take a stance against the Euros’ sponsors after Ronaldo removed two bottles of Coca-Cola placed in front of him.
Fans were left disgusted with tournament staff as they suggested the Manchester United midfielder moved the alcohol-free beer bottle due to his faith.
One supporter fumed: “Putting an alcoholic beverage in front of a Muslim is straight disrespect… You can’t blame Pogba here.”
A third added: “He is a Muslim you should respect his choice.”
Meanwhile, another stated: “Quite understandable that as a Muslim, Pogba wouldn’t want to be seen promoting beer.”
One simply stated: “Shoulda removed the Heineken logo/name behind him too.”
Earlier this week, Ronaldo removed two Coca-Cola bottles during his press conference prior to Portugal’s 3-0 win against Hungary.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner then declared ‘Drink water,’ which caused a £2.84billion drop in the company.
Uefa has since issued a statement in response to CR7’s actions, saying “everyone is entitled to their drink preferences” and that everyone has different “tastes and needs”.
It was an eventful night for Pogba in Munich as he played a huge role in Mats Hummels’ own goal.
He even declared that German defender Antonio Rudiger did BITE him as he played down the incident.
