PAOK Midfielder Vows Not to Celebrate Against Man Utd Out of Respect for Former Club
The UEFA Europa League clash between PAOK and Manchester United will see a unique twist, as the Greek side's midfielder, Omar El Kaddouri, has pledged not to celebrate if he scores against his former club.
The 30-year-old Moroccan playmaker spent two seasons with the Red Devils, between 2015 and 2017, although he made only a handful of appearances for the English giants. Despite the limited playing time, El Kaddouri harbors a deep respect for Manchester United and its passionate fanbase.
"I have a lot of respect for Manchester United," El Kaddouri told reporters ahead of the crucial encounter. "It was a great experience for me to play there, even though I didn't get to play as much as I would have liked. I will not celebrate if I score against them out of respect for the club and the fans."
This gesture of sportsmanship adds an intriguing layer to the already-anticipated match. The first leg of the Europa League Round of 16 tie will be played in Greece, with the return leg at Old Trafford scheduled for the following week.
El Kaddouri's presence in the PAOK midfield poses a significant threat to Manchester United. He has been a key player for the Greek side, providing creativity and attacking flair. His decision not to celebrate against his former club highlights the respect he holds for the institution, even amidst a competitive match.
This gesture of respect will undoubtedly resonate with fans of both clubs. Manchester United supporters will appreciate El Kaddouri's acknowledgement of his time at Old Trafford, while PAOK fans will admire his dedication to the club and its values.
This unique situation adds a fascinating subplot to the upcoming Europa League clash. Will El Kaddouri be able to follow through on his promise? Can he lead PAOK to a positive result against his former side? The answers to these questions will be revealed on the pitch in the coming days.