Kevin Denkey Receives Hero’s Welcome in Cincinnati

Togolese soccer player Kevin Denkey received a warm and emotional welcome from FC Cincinnati fans when he arrived at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport late Thursday night. The 24-year-old forward, who joined the MLS team in December after spending three and a half years with Cercle Bruges in Belgium, was deeply moved by the kind reception.

"Honestly, it’s very emotional for me. I’ve never had a welcome like this, not even after important games in the Europa Conference League," Denkey told FCCincinnati.com.

Eager for the effect their new Designated Player is expected to make, the supporters greeted his arrival with homemade placards and team chants. "We wanted to make him feel at home," said Deb Cowen, a loyal supporter.

Denkey, who had just wrapped up a busy schedule at MLS Media Day in Miami before flying to Cincinnati, was touched by the gesture. "This is so special. Whether it’s 20,000 fans in a stadium or a few here, it means so much," he remarked.

Fans think Denkey can help FC Cincinnati regain the Supporters' Shield and create new records in the upcoming season as he gets used to his new surroundings.