London, UK – Veteran politician and Prime Minister of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, playfully teased his Arsenal-supporting grandson following Manchester United's recent victory on Sunday, October 8, 2023. The lighthearted exchange, captured in a video shared on social media, highlights the familial rivalry often found amongst football fans.
Background
Anwar Ibrahim, 76, has been a prominent figure in Malaysian politics for decades. He served as Deputy Prime Minister under Mahathir Mohamad and was appointed Prime Minister on November 24, 2022. He is known for his articulate communication and active presence on social media, often engaging with the public on political and social issues.
His grandson is a known supporter of Arsenal Football Club, a Premier League team based in North London. The family's football allegiance has been a recurring theme in Anwar Ibrahim's social media posts, typically marked by good-natured ribbing.
Key Developments
The latest incident occurred after Manchester United defeated Arsenal 1-0 in a Premier League match at Old Trafford on Sunday, October 8th. Following the match, Anwar Ibrahim posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) featuring his grandson. The video shows Anwar playfully questioning his grandson’s choice of football club, referencing the recent result.
The video itself is relatively short, lasting approximately 45 seconds. It features Anwar Ibrahim speaking directly to the camera, interspersed with clips of the match and his grandson’s reactions. The grandson, while initially appearing slightly exasperated, responded with humor, acknowledging his grandfather's teasing.
The post quickly garnered significant attention on social media, generating hundreds of comments and shares. Football fans from both sides of the rivalry joined in, adding their own humorous remarks and observations to the conversation.
Impact
The incident primarily impacts the Anwar Ibrahim family and their social media followers. It serves as a relatable example of the playful rivalries that exist within families, particularly when it comes to sports fandom.

Beyond the immediate family, the video has resonated with football fans across the UK and globally. It provides a lighthearted moment within the often-intense atmosphere surrounding Premier League matches. The video has become a trending topic on X, with users sharing it widely and creating memes related to the exchange.
The interaction also underscores the Prime Minister's willingness to engage with the public in a personal and relatable way, showcasing a more human side to his public persona.
What Next
It is likely that this won't be the last time Anwar Ibrahim playfully teases his Arsenal-supporting grandson about Manchester United. The family's football rivalry appears to be an ongoing source of amusement and connection.
Future interactions could involve further social media posts related to Premier League matches, potentially featuring more humorous exchanges between Anwar Ibrahim and his grandson. The family may also continue to share anecdotes and stories related to their shared passion for football.
Social Media Reaction
The video sparked a wave of reactions on X. Many users commented on the grandfather-grandson dynamic, praising the lightheartedness of the exchange. Others shared their own similar experiences with family football rivalries. Several users also made jokes referencing past Manchester United vs. Arsenal matches.
Family Dynamics
While the video presents a humorous interaction, it offers a glimpse into the close relationship between Anwar Ibrahim and his grandson. The playful banter suggests a strong bond and a shared enjoyment of football, despite their differing team allegiances.
Political Implications
While seemingly innocuous, the video subtly reinforces Anwar Ibrahim's image as an approachable and relatable leader. It demonstrates his ability to connect with people on a personal level, transcending political boundaries and engaging in common cultural interests.
