Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale might need to refine his skill at avoiding the camera’s attention as a video of him using a snus pouch went viral
Despite being on the bench during Saturday’s 1-1 draw at Anfield, with David Raya guarding the Gunners goal, Ramsdale’s actions during the match raised eyebrows.
Aaron Ramsdale caught on camera using snus during Liverpool vs Arsenal, video goes viral
Ramsdale on the snus😭😭😭😭😭pic.twitter.com/u69FHeytlJ
— ًًً (@ibzsmo3k) December 23, 2023
While sitting as a substitute against Liverpool, the England international was seemingly captured on camera discreetly removing a snus pouch from his mouth. Despite his attempt to conceal the act by pulling down his snood, the incident was clearly caught on film.
In recent years, snus, a form of tobacco consumption with pouches often containing nicotine, has gained popularity among footballers as an alternative to smoking.
Professional athletes face strict restrictions on substances they can use, making snus a choice for some (even though it can result in a mild high).
Was there Nicotine in the Pouch?
While there is no conclusive evidence that Ramsdale’s pouch contained nicotine, the sight of him engaging in such behavior during a match might raise concerns among Arsenal fans.
Many supporters have called for Ramsdale’s return to the goalposts, particularly after David Raya’s controversial start at Arsenal.
The Incident sparked various reactions on social media, with some spectators praising the camera operator’s keen observation, while others criticized Ramsdale’s actions. The debate on whether such incidents should be highlighted intensified, with opinions varying among fans.
Dr. Gareth Nye, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Chester, emphasized that footballers already face elevated rates of cardiac issues, and the use of nicotine, such as in snus, could further strain their cardiovascular system, posing potential long-term risks.
Since being demoted in September, the 25-year-old Ramsdale has seen limited playing time, with just one league appearance when Raya was ineligible to face parent club Brentford.
The future of Raya’s permanent move to Arsenal remains uncertain, but Ramsdale’s mid-match snus habits might not be helping his case.
Who is Aaron Ramsdale?
For those unfamiliar, Aaron Christopher Ramsdale, born on 14 May 1998, is a professional English footballer specializing as a goalkeeper.
He currently plies his trade for the Premier League team Arsenal and is also a member of the England national team. Ramsdale initiated his senior club career with Sheffield United before transferring to AFC Bournemouth in 2017.
After loan spells with Chesterfield and AFC Wimbledon, he spent a season with Bournemouth before rejoining Sheffield United in a transfer valued at an initial £18 million.
In 2021, Ramsdale made a significant move to Arsenal in a club-record transfer, amounting to a potential £30 million, thus earning the distinction of being their most expensive goalkeeper.
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