Borussia Dortmund decides to stop Felix Nmecha’s goal celebration after his statement as midfielder speaks out
Borussia Dortmund is considering asking Felix Nmecha to stop his goal celebration because it is linked to the ‘Ballers in God’ group.
Ballers in God (BIG) was started in 2015 by former Spurs player John Bostock. It’s a way for footballers to connect through their shared Christian faith. On Instagram, the group has nearly 800,000 followers and includes well-known players like Kaka, Eberechi Eze, Antoine Semenyo, and Trevoh Chalobah, who have all been involved in some way.
This group reflects the growing number of players showing their faith in Jesus Christ on social media and during interviews. They also sell merchandise and host prayer meetings and retreats. But some Dortmund fans have raised concerns after Nmecha’s recent goal celebration.
Nmecha scored twice in Dortmund’s 2-1 win over Elversberg and celebrated both goals by pointing to the sky, taking an imaginary crown off his head, and laying it on the ground. Five players joined in this celebration, including Jair Cunha, Mark McKenzie, Marcel Lavinier, and Mauricio Prado, as part of a campaign called ‘The King’s Return.’
Ballers in God said about the celebration: “Whether after a goal or in a quiet moment, these players are using their platforms to point people towards the King of Kings! Football may bring applause and trophies, but there is only ONE who deserves our worship.”
However, some Dortmund supporters don’t agree with the celebration. They have concerns about the Ballers in God group, pointing out investigations by ARD, MONITOR magazine, and Sportschau that reported the network describes homosexuality as a sin and abortion as Satan’s plan. The fans also said the group promotes very conservative views against homosexuality and transgender identity.
German media outlet WDR says the club will ask Ballers in God not to feature Nmecha in their promotions. They will also talk to the former Manchester City academy player about changing how he celebrates on the field.
Ballers in God responded on Instagram, saying: “We are inspired by player-led movements like The King’s Return, where footballers show their faith in Jesus. We want to share hope and show love and respect to everyone, even those who don’t share our beliefs. Our focus is always to point people to Jesus with grace and love.”
Nmecha himself also shared a message to explain his celebration. He said it was not about promoting himself or any group but about laying his “crown” before the coming King and pointing to Jesus, who gives him hope and strength. He emphasized that his message is one of love and respect for everyone, no matter their background or beliefs, and is not about hate or discrimination.
He ended by quoting John 3:16: “For God so loved the world…”