Patryk Klimala denies Nazi salute claim as former Celtic striker insists flashpoint 'completely misunderstood'

Patryk Klimala issued an emotional apology to fans after the former Celtic striker was accused of making a Nazi salute during a goal celebration.

Polish striker Klimala joined Israeli club Hapoel Be'er Sheva on a free transfer in February having left the Parkhead club for New York Red Bulls in April 2021. He made 28 appearances in his year under Neil Lennon and though he only scored three goals, the Hoops managed to turn a modest profit on him, banking £3.4m for his move to MLS.

This weekend he netted for the third game in a row in a 2-1 win at Hapoel Jerusalem, but immediately sparked fury as he raised one hand in celebration to his club's fans behind the goal. It was taken by some to be a Nazi salute as he was the subject of a storm of criticism online from Israeli fans. The backlash forced Klimala into making a statement and he claims those taking it to be a grossly offensive gesture have "completely misunderstood" his intentions.

Klimala said: "My gesture during the goal celebration was completely misunderstood. As a Pole who respects the history of both countries, I would never even think of doing the Nazi salute. While living in Poland, I visited the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and I am fully aware of the importance of the history of Jewish heritage. After my goal, I just wanted to say hello to our fans. Other than that, it certainly wasn't anything else.

"Sorry if anyone took it the wrong way. Last but not least, this is a great opportunity to thank our fans again for all their support and I'm happy to say we've had another great win."

Klimala was at Celtic for 16 months after he cost them £3.5 million from Jagiellonia Bialystok three years ago and scored just three goals in 27 appearances before