Bayern Munich announced on Friday that they would not suspend defender Noussair Mazraoui following an investigation into his social media posts concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Mazraoui had posted several pro-Palestinian messages, including one expressing support for “our oppressed brothers in Palestine,” after a deadly attack by Hamas militants on Israel. The posts, which have been removed, were made in response to the Gaza Strip incursion on October 7, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.
The club stated that they had a “detailed and clarifying conversation” with the player regarding his Instagram posts, which had caused irritation and criticism due to their connection with the conflict. Bayern’s CEO, Jan-Christian Dreesen, conveyed that Mazraoui “credibly assured us he rejects terror and war” and expressed regret if his posts had caused any offense.
Mazraoui was quoted in Bayern’s statement, stating, “I condemn every kind of terrorism and every terrorist organization.”
Bayern’s coach, Thomas Tuchel, expressed his full support for the club’s statement, emphasizing that the issue transcends sports. He also revealed discussions with goalkeeper Daniel Peretz, an Israeli player, and underlined the club’s commitment to addressing any concerns among the players.
Mazraoui remains with the squad but is currently sidelined due to an injury sustained during international duty with Morocco.
In contrast, Mainz, Bayern’s opponents on Saturday, suspended player Anwar El Ghazi indefinitely for “unacceptable” social media posts related to the conflict, a decision Mainz’s coach, Bo Svensson, supported despite its sporting implications.
