Luka Jovic defends his controversial goal celebration and explains why he was unable to start for Fiorentina against Inter. ‘I have recovered now.’
The centre-forward was a surprise signing from Real Madrid over the summer, considering he had been purchased from Eintracht Frankfurt for €63m in 2019.
He had a stuttering start to the season, but still contributed six goals in 17 games between Serie A and the Conference League, including Thursday’s 2-1 win over Istanbul Basaksehir.
“It was a good game and an important result, both for the team and for me,” Jovic told Sportal.rs.
“It is important for me to get the best physical condition so we can end the season well and also prepare for the World Cup with Serbia.
“I was not in good shape against Inter, so I was not able to play from the start. I only managed to come on thanks to the medical staff, but now fortunately I have recovered.”
Jovic scored what he thought was the late equaliser for 3-3, until Inter snatched victory deep into stoppages, and irritated some of the Fiorentina fans with his goal celebration.
“At that moment, I felt strong emotions within me and so much joy after scoring the goal,” assured Jovic.
“We needed the support of the fans and we got that in the Conference League, where we gave the best response.”
The celebration saw him first hold his hand up to his ear, as if he couldn’t hear the crowd cheering him on.
He then made little ‘talking’ gestures with his hands, perhaps referring to the critics who had spoken out against his performances in the Fiorentina jersey.