New Barca striker Martin Braithwaite celebrates a successful debut and gets a hug from Lionel Messi. He doesn’t want to wash his debut jersey.
Martin Braithwaite has celebrated a successful debut with FC Barcelona.
The striker, who was signed up just a few days ago, was substituted after 70 minutes in a 5-0 win over SD Eibar, and put Lionel Messi’s fourth goal on the line for a 4-0 win (87th). After his shot defended by the goalkeeper, Arthur then provided the final score (89.).
“Messi congratulated me (for the pass, editor’s note). He is a great guy. He tried to help me and play me,” Braithwaite said after the game, adding with a laugh. “I won’t wash my jersey after he hugs me. I’m really really happy to have given him the assist for his goal.”
The Dane was only signed by CD Leganés on Thursday after Barca received the green light from the Spanish League to return to the transfer market. The reason for this was the serious injury of Ousmane Dembélé, who has to take a six-month break.
Barca coach Setién praises Braithwaite
On Saturday Braithwaite made his debut and replaced Antoine Griezmann to applause. “The reception was really special. I saw something like that on TV when I was a kid. The way they treat their new players and suddenly being here themselves and seeing that from the fans is incredible. I’m really proud.”