by Oliver Trust
BERLIN, Jan. 18 (Xinhua) -- Eintracht Frankfurt, the German Bundesliga's team of the hour, continues its dance to success.
As if the third victory in the third game in 2025, the 2-0 win over struggling Borussia Dortmund, wasn't enough to celebrate, a special guest turned up on the pitch as a pleasant surprise.
Omar Marmoush. The spectators rose from their seats to honor the 25-year-old with standing ovations. A roar of applause flushed through the Eintracht stadium. On the lawn, the winning team changed its choreography.
The man who is leaving for Manchester City on a deal worth up to 80 million euros, and wasn't allowed to participate in the Frankfurt shirt at the request of the Sky Blues, was surrounded by his (former) teammates.
Countless hugs were accompanied by encouraging claps as the Egyptian striker visibly was overwhelmingly enjoying a farewell party rarely seen in professional football.
"It is realistic that he is leaving us in the direction of the Citizens. We are in close contact and the final stages," sporting director Markus Krosche said.
According to British and German media reports, both clubs agreed on a deal worth 75 million plus bonus payments of up to five million.
20 goals aside from 13 assists in all competitions might tell the story. While the club is on its way to qualifying for the 2025-2026 UEFA Champions League campaign, the most valuable striker is departing.
"We are all happy for him. He deserves this great chance," German 2014 World Cup hero Mario Gotze said.
The German side is losing its best striker in the middle of a season after only 19 months. During that time Marmoush conquered the hearts of fans and teammates.
"We are not only losing a great footballer, but a great character. The way he was praised by fans and team is telling a lot about this team and this club," Dino Toppmoller said.
The coach highlighted the team's "very unique spirit," while Gotze added: "He always dreamed of the Premier League. All of us are happy for him."
Dressed in black pants and a fancy leather jacket, the Egyptian lost the fight against his emotions. Waving to the audience, some tears went down his cheeks.
Every Frankfurt staff and every squad member came and said some heartwarming farewell words.
"We would have loved to keep him, but we are happy for him," Toppmoller said.
Teammates pushed him in front of the fans to enjoy a solitary moment. The striker tapped his fist on his chest, while fans answered with the same gesture.
The TV station Sky spoke about a contract until 2029 coming along with a salary of 16 million per season. The station spoke about "a verbal agreement" with the last arrangements still in progress.
Until Friday afternoon the attacker was around with the Frankfurt team in their game preparations. As the agreement was reached, the Citizens are said to have expressed its demand that the newest arrival should not play a last match due to safety reasons. ■
