Bruno Guimaraes aimed a pointed message at Sunderland supporters through social media platforms after finding the net during Arsenal’s victory at the Stadium of Light.
The Brazilian midfielder, who completed a £75million transfer from Newcastle United to Arsenal during the summer window, opened his account for his new club in their 2-0 Premier League success on Saturday evening.
Guimaraes faced a hostile reception from home supporters upon his introduction as a second-half replacement, with the 48,707 attendance making their feelings clear due to his four-year tenure with the Magpies.
The animosity directed toward him stemmed from his previous affiliation on Tyneside.
The 28-year-old required minimal time to make an impact, breaking the deadlock in the 58th minute.
Positioning himself unmarked on the edge of the penalty area, he unleashed a powerful strike that beat goalkeeper Robin Roefs before sprinting away in celebration.
His reaction included a gesture toward the home crowd interpreted as reference to the club’s size.
Bukayo Saka added the finishing touch deep into added time, converting from the penalty spot after being fouled by Reinildo.
The Sunderland defender received his second yellow card for the challenge, reducing the hosts to ten men for the closing stages.
Following the final whistle, Guimaraes posted imagery capturing his goal and subsequent celebrations.
Accompanying the photographs, his message referenced the Sunderland faithful.
The forward had been subjected to derogatory language from spectators upon arriving at the stadium, with audible abuse audible during his entrance.
Despite the transfer that alarmed Newcastle supporters when he opted to move to North London, Guimaraes indicated in his post-match discussion with broadcasters that his affection for his former club remained strong.
When questioned about the significance of scoring his first Arsenal goal at that particular venue, he described it as a memorable strike in a fitting location.
The result left Sunderland positioned 14th in the league standings.
The club prepares for a significant week, returning to European competition for the first time since 1973 when they host AZ Alkmaar on Wednesday.
Attention then turns to a league encounter against Manchester City the following Sunday.