Hans-Joachim Watzke defends Felix Nmecha amid fan concerns

Hans-Joachim Watzke has defended Borussia Dortmund target Felix Nmecha, amid criticism from supporters over the club’s interest in his signature.

It is no secret that Borussia Dortmund are eyeing Felix Nmecha as their Jude Bellingham replacement, and talks over the transfer are already at an advanced stage. Reports in Germany claim that an agreement could even be reached by the end of this week, with a fee in the region of 25-30 million euros being mentioned.

The news of the probable transfer has been met with a wave of criticism and protests from several Borussia Dortmund supporters. The Germany international, who is a very religious person, has shared a series of homophobic and transphobic posts on social media in recent months. Fans displayed a banner near the club’s offices earlier this week as a protest against the club’s decision to pursue a move for Nmecha.

But Hans-Joachim Watzke has defended Nmecha, saying that the 22 year old is a normal lad who would not cause any trouble in the dressing room. The BVB CEO also believes that fans want football to be about football first. Speaking to the Süddeutsche Zeitung, Watzke commented:

"“He’s just a normal boy, a normal young footballer. He’s not the sort of guy who would cause problems in the dressing room with his attitude or behaviour.”“These topics are rather alien to the average football audience. They want football to be about football first.”"

Watzke and club president Dr. Reinhold Lunow met with Felix Nmecha last weekend to discuss his controversial beliefs. Reports claim that he was able to convince the duo that he supports the club’s core values. Nmecha also shared a post on Instagram recently, saying that he genuinely loves all people.