November 11: A group of Dortmund supporters have criticized Felix Nmecha’s goal celebration, saying it referred to a Christian campaign whose views conflict with the club’s values.
Nmecha scored twice in Saturday’s 2-1 win over Elversberg and celebrated by pointing to the sky and mimicking taking a crown from his head and placing it on the ground. The fan group said the gesture referred to ‘The King’s Return’, a campaign by the Ballers in God organisation.
Supporters said the campaign takes stances against homosexuality and transgender people, describes abortion as “Satan’s plan” and is at odds with Dortmund’s commitment to tolerance and diversity. They cited a recent German TV investigation which found that “extremely conservative positions against homosexuality and transgender identity are advocated.”
Nmecha said there had been “misunderstandings” and that the celebration was “not intended to promote myself or any organization”.
“My message has never been about promoting intolerance, discrimination or hatred in any form,” he said.
Ballers in God was founded by former Crystal Palace and Tottenham midfielder John Bostock. Among his followers stand out the Englishmen Marc Guéhi and Bukayo Saka and the former Brazilian star Kaká.
“Our desire is not only to share our hope, but to show love and respect to everyone, including those who do not share our beliefs,” the organization said. “Our focus has always been, and always will be, to lead people to Jesus with grace and love.”
It is not the first time that Nmecha’s views have caused friction at the club. She faced criticism from fans when she joined in 2023 for social media posts related to transgender issues.
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