Cristiano Ronaldo: Cheeky Mascot Copies Superstar's New Celebration Before Champions League Game

• Cristiano Ronaldo is proving to be one of the most influential sports personalities in the world
• Days after unleashing a new celebration, there was yet another imitation in the Champions League
• A young mascot decided to steal the show with a brief replication of the celebration before Sporting Lisbon's clash with Marseille

There was a viral moment prior to the clash between Sporting Lisbon and Marseille on Wednesday night as a young mascot imitated Cristiano Ronaldo’s celebration in full glare of the cameras.

On Sunday, Ronaldo ditched his famous ‘Siiu’ celebration for a completely new one as he scored his 700th club goal in United’s 2-1 win over Everton.

The new celebration entailed the five-time Ballon d’Or winner clasping his hands together and closing his eyes in a thoughtful-looking pose to mimick someone who is in a light sleep.

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Barely days after the new celebration was unleashed and it has already become global phenomenon.

It first started with Diego Moreira, an 18-year-old Benfica youth player who took the chance to do a celebration after scoring for his side against PSG. He instantly went viral as a result.

And on Wednesday, the frenzy continued but this time, it did not come from a goal celebration.

Instead, it was a cheeky mascot who decided to take the chance when he saw the cameras pan to him.

As cameras quickly captured the young lad, he imitated Cristiano’s celebration before issuing a cheeky smile as the camera shot shifted.

Man United explain Ronaldo’s celebration

On Tuesday, Manchester United, through the club website, attempted to make sense of their superstar’s new celebration.

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Apparently, it had all to do with how Ronaldo typically napped when travelling with his teammates.

"Of course, Cristiano is renowned for looking after himself and ensuring he is always in the best possible condition, which naturally involves hours of hard work on the training pitch and in the gym.” United said.

"It also includes resting at the right moments and ensuring he has enough sleep to aid his recovery: it has previously been reported that Ronaldo naps several times a day!