With the signing ofGiannis Konstantelias imminent at Borussia Dortmund, fans of PAOK have protested at the sale of the Greek international branding club officials as traitors, reports Kicker.
Upon his arrival at Dortmund airport on Sunday ahead of his medical, the soon-to-be BVB man was confronted by a PAOK fan, which led the player to defend the transfer, explaining that leaving was his decision alone, but he still loved the club. The fan recorded the interaction, which was later published by Ruhr Nachrichten.
Already cause for concern, this was nothing compared to the reaction of the news back in Thessaloniki. Despite being only 23, Konstantelias is considered an iconic figure at the club and the imminent transfer led many fans to outrage online, which led to in-person protests, including a “symbolic occupation” of PAOK’s offices on Sunday afternoon.
Fans were demanding an in-person meeting with club President Ivan Savvidis, who is currently residing in his summer property on the outskirts of the city. It’s highly unlikely that the fans’ demands will be met.
Back to social media and the PAOK Ultra Group, Gate 4, demanded that the player call off the transfer and stay:
“You criminals and traitors: Hands off Konstantelias!”
Konstantelias came through the youth system at PAOK and was considered their best talent since Gorgis Koudal, who played for the club between 1963 and 1984, leading them to their first league title in 1976.
Whilst the news of their homegrown talent leaving has caused uproar, it’s not going to change the transfer. Konstantelias is expected to be announced as a BVB player soon.
GGFN | Jamie Allen