Topics: Turkish Super Lig, Football
Antalyaspor player Sagiv Yehezkel will reportedly have his contract terminated after his celebration against Trabzonspor.
On Sunday afternoon, Antalyaspor hosted Trabzonspor at the Antalya Stadyumu in the Turkish Super Lig.
The match ended in a 1-1 after Yehezkel’s 68th-minute goal cancelled out Taxiarchis Fountas’ strike in the second minute.
However, Yehezkel attracted headlines for his goal celebration.
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The Israeli midfielder pointed to his wrist in honour of those who have been caught up in the war.
In response to his celebration, the Turkish club released a strong statement.
Club President Sinan Boztepe said: “In the Trabzonspor match we played today, I watched with sadness and surprise that Sagiv Jehezkel acted against the sensitivities of Antalya, Antalyaspor and our country.
“The instant post after the goal on our club's official social media accounts was removed immediately after the issue was noticed.”
He continued: “I want the whole public to know that I will not allow such behavior during my term as president, no matter what great success may eventually come.
“While we continue to stay involved in sports and the green field and see our football players as athletes without discrimination of religion, language or race, I never approve of this move that may cause speculation. No one should have any doubt that I will do what is necessary from now on, just like today.”
According to the Demiroren News Agency, via Fanatik, Boztepe said Yehezkel’s contract could be terminated in the near future.
He said: “I saw the photo. Our national values are above everything. No matter how much the football player earns us. We will take his defense and most likely leave it out of the squad.
“After his defense, we will terminate his contract and part ways with the team. Our national values are more important than anything else.”
