Carlos Tevez stole the show at Soccer Aid, reigniting tensions with Manchester United supporters.
The legendary forward has a history of controversy at Old Trafford stemming from his time as a player.
During the sold-out charity match, he managed to provoke even stronger reactions from Red Devils fans than he did when he controversially moved to rivals Manchester City over a decade prior.
The 41-year-old Argentine striker came on as a substitute and scored four times, helping the World XI come back from a 3-0 deficit to secure a dramatic 5-4 victory late in the game.
After being heavily booed upon entering the field, Tevez seized the opportunity to antagonise the Old Trafford faithful.
Celebrating his rapid succession of goals, the three-time Premier League champion first cupped his ear towards the fans and then gestured towards the name on his jersey.
Adding to the frustration of angry United fans, Liverpool`s renowned anthem `You`ll Never Walk Alone` was played over the stadium speakers when former hockey star Sam Quek, who is from Liverpool, was substituted on.
One supporter posted online, expressing their exasperation: “Soccer Aid has absolutely rattled me here. Who let Carlos Tevez in the building and who the f*** agreed to play that over the tannoy.”
Numerous fans shared their reactions online after Tevez had scored just two of his goals.
Another fan commented: “Playing you’ll never walk alone at old Trafford and Carlos Tevez brace… Jesus” accompanied by a laughing emoji.
Another simply put it: “Watched Soccer Aid for 6 minutes and seen Carlos Tevez score a double and you’ll never walk alone being played at Old Trafford.”
One user quipped: “Tevez getting hat-trick and YNWA being played in the stadium, don’t think soccer aid will be getting played at Old Trafford anymore.”
Others questioned why Tevez was even permitted to play at Old Trafford.
One commenter on X (formerly Twitter) took the suggestion further, stating: “Shouldn`t be allowed to play You`ll Never Walk Alone at Old Trafford even for Soccer Aid.”
Tevez played for United from 2007 to 2009, a period marked by significant attention.
Many fans believe his time there ended on a bitter note when, following speculation about his future, his representatives indicated he did not wish to continue playing for Alex Ferguson`s side.
He subsequently joined cross-town rivals Manchester City, who were then emerging as a major force, enjoying a successful four-year spell.
While Tevez has not played for United at Old Trafford for many years, his actions are clearly still remembered by angered fans.
Nevertheless, Tevez delivered a stellar performance, single-handedly driving the World XI`s comeback before Big Zuu sealed the victory with a shot from 20 yards.
However, calling it a `drill` might be generous, as Big Zuu`s shot towards the near post from 20 yards arguably should have been saved by England goalkeeper Paddy McGuinness.
The TV presenter goalkeeper mishandled the shot, inexplicably attempting to save it with his legs and getting caught up.
Jokingly, McGuinness might have wished to be `Taken Out` (referencing his show) of goal at that moment.
Although it was too late for the England team, United fans continued to express their anger online regarding both Tevez`s actions and the playing of the Liverpool anthem.
