After the official announcement of the transfer of Azerbaijani national team striker Nariman Akhundzade to Columbus Crew, the club's fans actively began discussing the new transfer on social networks, evaluating his experience, role in the attack, and even how quickly the stadium would get used to his last name.
Idman.Biz reports that optimism regarding the footballer's level and Qarabag's European experience is particularly noticeable in the comments. One user recalled that Qarabag consistently performs in leading European tournaments and the player has Champions League experience, adding: "It will be interesting to see how he adapts to MLS."
Another fan expressed the mood more simply: "I like the plan to concede countless goals, but score one more. Now we also need defense, please."
A separate topic was the pronunciation of the new footballer's last name. Fans directly ask for help: "Can someone tell me how this is pronounced at all?", and at the same time thank you when someone writes a transcription. Some are already thinking about slogans for the stands: "What will it sound like when the whole stadium shouts his last name? Maybe the announcer will help us?"
In response, assurance is expressed that Columbus has already faced difficult surnames: "If the stands have learned to pronounce "Lappalainen", "Ruvulkaba" and "Valesilya", then we will learn this one too."
Another noteworthy reaction is related to expectations regarding the influx of Azerbaijani fans to the social media accounts of Columbus Crew. They write in the discussions: "Get ready, Azerbaijanis will take over the Facebook and Instagram comments under every post of the club", thus implying that the audience and activity under the posts will increase significantly after the transfer.
It remains to be hoped that Azerbaijani fans will not disappoint their American colleagues and will actively support their compatriot playing for Columbus Crew.