‘Unbothered’ Merih Demiral, who faces potential ban over ‘wolf’ celebration, vows to do the same gesture if he gets opportunity

Merih Demiral is unbothered of the ongoing UEFA investigation into his gesture and claims that he'll do it again if given the chance.

‘Unbothered’ Merih Demiral, who faces potential ban over ‘wolf’ celebration, vows to do the same gesture if he gets opportunity

Merih Demiral is currently under investigation by UEFA for a gesture shown after his second goal vs Austria (Via X/@brfootball & Merihdemiral)

Turkey spectacularly booked their spot in the quarter finals of UEFA Euro 2024 with a 2-1 win over Austria on Tuesday night. The side led by Kaan Ayhan impressed audiences as they continued their run as ‘dark horses’ at the Euros. Following the win against Austria, Turkey will face the Netherlands on the 6th of July at Olympiastadion Berlin.

Surprisingly, Turkey have their centre-back Merih Demiral to thank for both of their goals, as the 6’4″ defender scored in either half to hand his side the win. The 26-year-old has started every single game for Turkey at the Euros and will be crucial against the Netherlands.

YouTube video

However, the player has come under investigation by UEFA for holding up a ‘symbol’ that represents the ultra-nationalist Grey Wolves salute. In a recent interaction with the press, Demiral expressed that he couldn’t be less bothered about the same. 

I saw other people doing the same in the stadium. I'm very proud as a person to be a Turk and that's the meaning of the gesture. Hopefully, I'll get more opportunities to do the same gesture again.
Merih Demiral said in a press conference

Demiral has previously been rebuked for making military-style salutes as well. The Grey Wolves salute has been banned in Austria while the group has been banned as a whole in France.

Arda Guler joins ‘elite’ list as Merih Demiral risks suspension ahead of crucial quarter final match

Arda Guler‘s brilliance was on display against Austria as Turkey scraped past their opponents in the Round of 16. The 19-year-old ran the show in midfield, as he weaved his way past a sea of Austrian players at the heart of the pitch. Guler was directly responsible for both of Turkey’s goals, as Demiral ended up putting the ball in the net on both occasions.

Arda Guler vs Austria
Arda Guler joins an elite list featuring himself, Wayne Rooney & Cristiano Ronaldo! (Via X/@brfootball)

His first corner ended up at Demiral’s feet while the second was expertly met by the latter’s head. Following the same, Guler became only the third teenager to score and assist at the Euros after Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney. As for his teammate Demiral, his ultra-nationalist Grey Wolves ‘salute’ has been condemned by UEFA.

UEFA have also announced that they have opened investigations into the same, with no mention of a closing date. With the game against the Netherlands approaching fast, fans are worried that the player may have to miss out on the same if found guilty.

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