Felix Nmecha responds to criticism over his goal celebrations, which include a gesture tied to a Christian evangelical network. Nmecha says the celebrations have been misunderstood and that they are not intended to promote “intolerance, discrimination, or hate in any form.”

The controversy centers on the gesture connected to “The King’s Return” campaign associated with Ballers in God (BIG), a network of Christian footballers. Several outlets also note that German public broadcaster ARD has linked BIG to ultra-conservative positions on issues including homosexuality and transgender identity. Borussia Dortmund supporters criticized Nmecha following the weekend celebrations.

Outlets also report that the issue is now being taken up by Dortmund officials and, in at least one account, the German football authorities are considering discussions with Nmecha. Some coverage adds context about previous allegations related to social media posts, while others focus primarily on Nmecha’s response and the meaning he attributes to his faith-linked gesture.