Nmecha denies discriminatory intent behind goal celebration

Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha has publicly responded to criticism of his goal celebration, saying in an Instagram statement reported by Sportschau that the gesture was not meant to promote discrimination or intolerance. "With my celebration, I wanted neither to put myself nor any organization in the foreground," Nmecha said, explaining that it was about laying his "crown" before the king he believes will return and pointing to Jesus.

Nmecha said he had been told the celebration caused "some misunderstandings" and that his message "was never about spreading intolerance, discrimination, or hatred in any form." He added that his Christian faith centers on love and respect for all people regardless of background, beliefs or worldview.

The criticism focused on a gesture resembling one associated with the "The King's Return" campaign, which has links to the evangelical network "Ballers in God." According to the report, ARD's Monitor programme found discriminatory messaging in the campaign's wider religious environment, and Dortmund's Fan and Supporters' Department called on Nmecha to distance himself clearly from such networks. The report states Nmecha did not directly distance himself from the organizations in his statement.

According to dpa information reported by Sportschau, Germany head coach Jürgen Klopp has already discussed the matter with Nmecha at the national team headquarters in Herzogenaurach, without details being disclosed. DFB sporting director Rudi Völler had also announced plans to speak with the player, and Borussia Dortmund's management intends further talks, according to Sport-Informations-Dienst.