Dortmund to hold talks with Nmecha over goal celebration controversy

Borussia Dortmund have said they will seek a conversation with midfielder Felix Nmecha after renewed criticism of his association with the Christian network "Ballers in God", according to a report by Get German Football News citing an inquiry from Kicker.

The controversy resurfaced after Dortmund's 2-1 Bundesliga win over SV Elversberg, in which Nmecha celebrated his two goals with a crown gesture linked to the campaign "The King's Return". Dortmund's Fan and Supporters Department issued a statement questioning the values promoted by the network behind the campaign, citing investigations by German public broadcasters ARD Monitor and Sportschau.

In its response to Kicker, Dortmund said it respects freedom of religion and belief and that mutual respect and the club's shared values matter most. The club defended Nmecha's personal conduct since his 2023 arrival from Wolfsburg, saying he had behaved respectfully, while acknowledging the concerns raised by supporters and the current reporting. Kicker reported that Dortmund had removed social-media photographs showing Nmecha using symbolism associated with "Ballers in God" and did not publish images of the crown celebrations against Elversberg.

The fan department's statement came two weeks before the club's annual general meeting on November 22, and focused on investigations into the network's wider activities, including allegations that associated missionary services promoted discriminatory positions on homosexuality, gender identity and abortion. Nmecha, 26, scored both goals against Elversberg and has become one of Dortmund's most influential midfielders under Niko Kovac.