Dan Axel Zagadou: Everyone should fight racism regardless of their skin colour

Dan Axel Zagadou is determined to keep fighting against racism, and wants everyone to get more involved regardless of their skin colour.

In an interview with Funke Media, Dan Axel Zagadou spoke about his experiences of being racially abused, especially at the beginning of his career. The Borussia Dortmund defender is now determined to use his means to fight for change, and wants everyone to campaign together to root racism out of both football and society.

"“Everyone should fight racism, regardless of their skin colour,” Zagadou said. “Many things that are currently happening in the world are hard for me to endure.”“When I lived in Paris, I was stopped by the police several times just because I am black. In football, some parents didn’t want their children playing against my team because I’m tall and black. That’s terrible and that’s why I try to use my means to help bring about change.”"

Zagadou, who took part in the Black Lives Matter protests in Dortmund earlier this year, believes that not enough is being done in the fight against racism at the moment.

"“Everyone must become more involved. If we still hear monkey chants in stadiums, obviously not enough is being done.”"

The 21 year old also spoke about the knee injury he suffered in the pre-season friendly against SCR Altach last week. While an exact prognosis is not yet available, Zagadou does not expect to be out for too long.

"“I injured myself during the test match against SCR Altach, on the knee where I had already torn a ligament last season. I’m not sure what kind of injury it is yet, but I don’t think I’ll be out for that long – at least I hope not.”"

Borussia Dortmund will be aiming to fight for the Bundesliga title this season, and Zagadou believes that the Black and Yellows need to approach games more seriously, and with more concentration if they are to be successful.

"“We need to win more games, especially those that look easy on paper. Last year we made too many mistakes against the so-called small teams – although there are really no small teams in the Bundesliga. We have to approach these games more seriously and with more concentration, then we will also be more successful”."

Zagadou also said that he is very happy that Jadon Sancho is staying at Borussia Dortmund, amid rumours heavily linking him with a move to Manchester United.

"“I was very pleased to hear that, because he is so important for our team. He scores a lot of goals and prepares a lot of them – and I hope he will continue to do so in the coming season.”"

Asked about his own future, Zagadou said that he is happy at Borussia Dortmund, and has no plans to leave the club any time soon.

"“I feel comfortable in Dortmund, I have no reason to change my club. I still have a long-term contract, so I’m taking it all easy.”"

Zagadou has two years remaining on his current deal, and Borussia Dortmund sporting director Michael Zorc said last month that the club would like to extend his contract.