He made a derby reference! Ergin Ataman apologized to Fenerbahçe.

The head coach of the Turkish National Team and Panathinaikos, Ergin Ataman, apologized to the stands for making a hand gesture showing the derby score after the friendly match against Galatasaray.

Here is Ataman's statement;

"After the friendly match played against Galatasaray last night, in response to the interest of the fans, I first celebrated with my classic fist pump and then, unexpectedly, made the '3-1' gesture that was reflected in the media. I had no intention of targeting or offending any community while making this gesture.

I am a coach who expresses my respect for the Fenerbahçe community at every opportunity, but I also emphasize that I am one of their biggest rivals on the field. I am aware of the discomfort my gesture caused within the Fenerbahçe community. I would like to express my sincere regret due to the perception that arose in a way I never desired. I apologize to the entire Fenerbahçe community for the hurt I caused due to the incident."

FENERBAHÇE REACTED

Fenerbahçe's Secretary General Burak Kızılhan reacted to Ergin Ataman. Kızılhan stated, "We held discussions among ourselves regarding the divisive, discriminatory, and despicable gesture of that person, whose name I do not even want to mention, which is not befitting of a national team coach. We have spoken with the relevant parties. Our community can be at ease regarding this matter. We will take the necessary actions and make the relevant announcements very shortly," he said.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Galatasaray hosted Panathinaikos in a friendly match. Panathinaikos head coach Ergin Ataman made a reference to the derby before the match by signaling '3-1' to the Galatasaray fans.