"I love this club and I will not tolerate disrespect": Edwin Cardona apologized after controversial gesture towards DIM fans

Former Atlético Nacional player Edwin Cardona caused a stir on social media after making a controversial gesture towards fans of Independiente Medellín (DIM) during a match between the two teams.

The incident occurred during a match between Atlético Nacional and DIM on August 22, 2023, at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium in Medellín. In the 75th minute of the match, Cardona was substituted off the pitch and as he walked towards the bench, he made a gesture with his hand that was interpreted by some as being disrespectful towards the DIM fans.

The gesture sparked outrage among DIM fans and many took to social media to express their anger and disappointment. Some fans even called for Cardona to be banned from playing in Medellín again.

In response to the backlash, Cardona issued a statement on his Instagram account apologizing for his gesture.

"I want to apologize to the fans of Independiente Medellín for my gesture during the match on Sunday," Cardona wrote. "I love this club and I would never do anything to disrespect the fans."

Cardona went on to say that he was frustrated by the result of the match and that he made the gesture in the heat of the moment.

"I understand that my gesture was disrespectful and I regret making it," Cardona wrote. "I hope that the fans can forgive me and that we can move on from this incident."

It is unclear if Cardona will face any punishment from Atlético Nacional or the Colombian Football Federation for his gesture.