Austria forward Marko Arnautovic has issued an apology for his wild celebrations during Sunday night's European Championship opener against North Macedonia in Group C.
The 32-year-old came on as a second-half substitute at the National Arena in Bucharest and scored in the 89th minute, helping Franco Foda's side secure all three points with a well-deserved 3-1 win.
As you can see in the footage below, after rounding the goalkeeper and slotting it away with ease, Arnautovic appeared to launch a verbal tirade at the opposition before being mobbed by his teammates.
Austria captain David Alaba then proceeded to physically intervene when the celebrations continued, grabbing his teammate's mouth before having a stern word with the former Stoke City and West Ham forward.
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Arnautovic has since apologised for his actions in a statement on his official Instagram account.
He admitted there were some "heated words" voiced as he celebrated finding the net to make it 3-1.
Arnautovic has also apologised to the people of North Macedonia and Albania following his actions.
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He wrote: "There were some heated words yesterday in the emotions of the game for which I apologise - especially to the people from North Macedonia and Albania."
"I would like to say one thing very clearly. I AM NOT A RACIST! I have friends in almost every country and I stand for diversity. Everyone who knows me is aware of that."
Austria are now top of Group C thanks to goals from Stefan Lainer, Michael Gregoritsch and Arnautovic in the clash, meanwhile North Macedonia sit rock bottom on goal difference.
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Thoughts on those bizarre celebrations on Sunday night?
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football, North Macedonia, Austria
