A Christian athletes’ organization has pledged to “demonstrate love and respect towards everyone” after a Borussia Dortmund fan group criticized midfielder Felix Nmecha for a goal celebration linked to their campaign.
The supporters’ group objected to Nmecha’s gesture during Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Elversberg, which referenced the ‘King’s Return’ initiative run by Ballers in God. The fans alleged the campaign promotes discrimination against homosexuality and transgender individuals, characterizes abortion as “Satan’s plan,” and conflicts with the club’s commitment to tolerance and diversity.
After scoring twice, Nmecha pointed skyward and mimed removing a crown from his head and placing it on the ground. The player subsequently stated there were “misunderstandings” regarding the celebration, insisting it was “not intended to promote myself or any organisation.”
Citing an investigation by German broadcaster ARD, the fan group claimed the campaign advocates “extremely conservative positions against homosexuality and transgender identity.” Ballers in God was founded by former Crystal Palace and Tottenham midfielder John Bostock and counts high-profile players such as England internationals Marc Guehi and Bukayo Saka, along with former Brazil forward Kaká, among its followers.
In a statement responding to the allegations, Ballers in God said: “We are encouraged by player-led movements such as The King’s Return, where footballers themselves take the initiative to express their faith in Jesus. Our desire is not only to share our hope, but to demonstrate love and respect towards everyone, including those who do not share our beliefs. Our focus has always been, and will always be, to point people to Jesus with grace and love.”
Nmecha added: “My message has never been about promoting intolerance, discrimination, or hate in any form.”
The incident follows a series of flashpoints in English football regarding faith and inclusion. Last year, the Premier League ended its partnership with LGBTQ+ charity Stonewall and withdrew from the Rainbow Laces campaign. In 2024, then-Ipswich captain Sam Morsy declined to wear a rainbow armband citing religious beliefs, while Guehi wrote “I [heart] Jesus” on his armband when captaining Palace. Manchester United also abandoned plans to wear a jacket supporting the LGBTQ+ community after a player refused to participate.