Luis Palma has stirred headlines back home in Honduras after his match-winning goal against Curacao sparked controversy, not for the goal itself, but for the celebration that followed.
The Celtic winger found the net in the 91st minute to fire Honduras into the knockout stages of the Gold Cup. But rather than bask in the moment, his reaction drew criticism from journalist Julio Cesar Cruz, who publicly dismissed Palma’s importance to the national team and told him to “do your job” on the pitch instead of making statements off it.
Taking to X, he said: “Luis Palma, you’re still a nobody in the National Team, so do your job and if you’re going to shut us up, let it be on the field against Panama and in the important matches for the Bicolor. You’ve rightfully earned the criticism for your TikTok lives, so speak on the field.”
Palma’s gesture, seemingly aimed at silencing critics, didn’t go down well. The moment shone a spotlight on the pressure facing the 25-year-old, who endured a mixed time at Parkhead after arriving from Aris. While capable of brilliance, his inconsistency left fans and pundits alike frustrated. Now in the spotlight again for his national side, the scrutiny continues.
He responded calmly when asked post-match, acknowledging that players hear what’s being said but insisting that the team remains professional and focused.
“This is a dedication to no one. We take everything that’s said about this group with a grain of salt, and I think they’re right in some ways, and we’re very professional about how to act,” he told Diez.
At Celtic, Palma’s future remains uncertain. With new signings coming in and Brendan Rodgers reshaping the squad for another title tilt and Champions League push, he’ll need to prove his worth.
