Sharp Vinegar Harms Its Own Container

Ergin Ataman, who thrives on tension, has stirred up yet another controversy.

After a friendly match between Panathinaikos and Galatasaray in Istanbul, Ataman made a ‘3-1’ gesture, referencing the Fenerbahce-Galatasaray derby. Either Ataman is forgetting that he will soon be visiting Kadikoy with Fenerbahce on the horizon, or he’s deliberately sowing seeds of tension, trying to provoke Fenerbahce and its fans. These aren’t exactly commendable actions for someone who also holds the title of head coach for the national team. One day, he may get swept up in his own chaos. In fact, even before the season started, he already faced justified backlash from Fenerbahce. While leading Panathinaikos in Southern Cyprus, he encountered a banner crisis, much like stepping onto the Kardak Rocks, yet he still hasn’t learned his lesson, unfortunately.