The only Chelsea player who refused to acknowledge Liverpool during the guard of honour

Liverpool have been crowned Premier League champions, and as a result, they’re set to receive four guards of honour—Chelsea being the first to provide one.

Inside the stadium, Arne Slot’s title-winning side was greeted with boos from the home fans, and it seemed one Chelsea player shared the crowd’s disapproval.

Footage recorded by journalist James Pearce from the stands appeared to show Noni Madueke reluctant to take part in the tribute. While others—teammates, officials, and mascots—clapped respectfully, the England winger looked noticeably disengaged.

Offering a guard of honour is a traditional gesture of respect toward the best team in the league, and Madueke’s behaviour came across as particularly discourteous for a 23-year-old professional.

Fans were eager to see which Chelsea players would line up for the gesture, and seeing Romeo Lavia, Moises Caicedo, and Enzo Fernandez—who had all snubbed Liverpool to join Chelsea—made the moment even more satisfying for Reds supporters.

With former players like Rio Ferdinand and Peter Crouch acknowledging how uncomfortable guards of honour can be, it added another layer to the scene—knowing what might have been going through the Chelsea players’ minds.

Madueke making his displeasure so obvious came across poorly, and if he ever wins a league title himself, one would hope he’s treated with more grace than he showed on this occasion.