Former Manchester United star Javier Hernandez reacts emotionally to Punch the monkey video as Japanese macaque becomes social media sensation in Japan

Javier Hernandez, the former Manchester United forward and Mexican goal-scoring legend, recently shared a touching moment with his fans on social media.

The reason? A heartwarming, yet emotional, video of Punch, a young Japanese macaque, who has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide.

The monkey became a viral sensation after finding comfort in an orangutan stuffed toy following the abandonment by his mother at the Ichikawa City Zoo in Japan.

Hernandez’s reaction wasn’t subtle.

The striker could be seen wiping away tears as he watched Punch interact with his new companion, and he took to social media to express his admiration for the little macaque.

His words resonated with fans, highlighting the universal lessons of resilience, innocence, and emotional strength.

Punch the Monkey Steals Hearts Online

Punch, still a juvenile, became a symbol of hope for many when videos of him dragging his orangutan plush around circulated online.

The clip struck a chord with viewers, accumulating over five million views in a short time.

People were moved not only by his situation but by the raw, unfiltered emotion the young macaque displayed, reminding humans of their own vulnerability and ability to persevere.

The viral sensation quickly drew support, with many celebrating Punch’s courage and the innocence he exudes, and Hernandez was no exception.

Sharing his thoughts, the former Manchester United star wrote:

“Punch Monkey moved us because he is strong and he is real.

He tries to defend himself without fully knowing how, and we have all done this at some point.

There is no malice in him only emotion, innocence, and a desire to exist.”

He continued with a reflection on life and resilience:

“He teaches us that: You can feel deeply without living in complaint.

You can recognise rejection without becoming a victim. You can protect your heart without closing it off.

Less ‘what they did to me,’ and more ‘what do I do with this?'”

Punch Finds Happiness With Other Monkeys

Despite the initial sadness of his story, more recent videos show that Punch has begun to thrive.

He has formed bonds with other monkeys at the zoo, sharing hugs and participating in grooming, a key element of social development among Japanese macaques.

This heartwarming turn of events has helped reassure fans that Punch is adjusting well to life without his mother, spreading a message of hope and recovery.

Hernandez’s Football Journey

Hernandez is no stranger to resilience himself.

The 37-year-old spent five years at Manchester United, scoring 59 goals in 157 appearances across all competitions and winning two Premier League titles along with a Community Shield.

Beyond Old Trafford, he played for Real Madrid, Bayer Leverkusen, West Ham, and most recently Mexican side Chivas, leaving the club in December 2025.

The Mexican forward is also his nation’s all-time leading scorer, boasting 52 goals in 109 appearances for Mexico.

While currently a free agent, Hernandez continues to inspire fans with his dedication and the emotional moments he shares, whether on or off the pitch.

What’s Next?

Punch’s story isn’t over yet.

With the young macaque integrating well into the zoo’s social environment, animal lovers hope to see more interactions and positive developments in his life.

Meanwhile, fans of Hernandez are keeping an eye on the striker’s next move, wondering whether he will return to professional football or continue to focus on inspiring moments like this one.

Summary

Javier Hernandez was moved to tears by a viral video of Punch, a Japanese macaque who found comfort in an orangutan toy after being abandoned by his mother.

The video, which garnered millions of views, highlights Punch’s emotional strength and resilience, and has sparked worldwide sympathy.

Hernandez shared heartfelt reflections on the lessons of perseverance and emotional intelligence drawn from Punch’s story.

More recent footage shows Punch happily interacting with other monkeys, signaling a brighter future.

Hernandez, a Manchester United and Mexico legend, is currently a free agent after leaving Chivas in December 2025.