LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Mainz winger Anwar El Ghazi has been suspended by the Bundesliga club after posting a pro-Palestine statement on social media regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict.
The Dutch footballer has been barred from participating in training and games, with the club deeming his stance on the ongoing Middle East conflict as “unacceptable,” according to a statement released by the Bundesliga side.
El Ghazi’s social media post, which read “Palestine will be free,” was later removed from his Instagram story.
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In their statement, the club clarified: “Before reaching this decision, the club and the player engaged in extensive discussions.
“Mainz 05 respects the existence of varying perspectives on the long-standing and intricate Middle East conflict.
“However, the club disassociates itself from the content of the particular social media post, as it is not in line with the club’s values.”
Anwar El Ghazi, who has represented the Netherlands twice at the senior international level, joined Mainz in September after stints with clubs like Ajax, Lille, Villa, Everton, and PSV.
His transfer to Mainz followed previous rumors of a potential move to Manchester United.