Bayern Munich has announced that Moroccan international footballer Noussair Mazraoui will remain with the club, reiterating that he is a “peace-loving person,” following the heated debate over his post on Instagram demonstrating solidarity and sympathy for Palestinian victims.
Mazraoui has faced criticism and negative press coverage in Germany for his support for Palestinian victims, with some accusing him of being a “terrorism supporter,” and others even asking the club to rescind his contract.
A German government delegate has demanded that Bayern Munich terminate Mazraoui’s contract, which is good through June 2026. The delegate also requested his expulsion from Germany, a request that seems unlikely.
Upon Mazraoui’s return from Morocco, where he was called up with the Atlas Lions team, he attended a meeting with the head of FC Bayern Munich.
The press release of Bayern Munich issued a statement following the meeting stating “Noussair Mazraoui has credibly assured us that as a peace-loving person he resolutely rejects terror and war and he never meant to cause any irritation with his posts,” said Jan-Christian Dreesen, CEO of FC Bayern.
Both the club and the player underscored their opposition to the escalation of the Middle East conflict and its perception of brutality in Germany, in particular, highlighting the country’s commitment to peace and its rejection of violence and hatred in all forms.
The club strongly denounced the murder of children and families and believes that football should promote cultural reconciliation, especially in difficult times.