Mainz 05 terminate contract with Anwar El Ghazi over pro-Palestine social media post

ISTANBUL

Mainz 05, a German top-tier football club, terminated the contract of Anwar El Ghazi on Friday over a pro-Palestine social media post related to the conflict in Israel and Gaza.

"FSV Mainz 05 terminated their contract with Anwar El Ghazi with immediate effect on Friday. The club has taken this action in response to comments and posts from the player on social media," Mainz 05 said in a statement.

Last month, Mainz 05 suspended El Ghazi after he posted a social media story expressing support for the people of Palestine. However, the German top-tier side lifted his suspension, saying he would be available for selection again after being given a warning on Monday.

- El Ghazi's response

El Ghazi later responded to the termination of his contract on X, writing "Stand for what is right, even if it means standing alone."

"The loss of my livelihood is nothing when compared to the hell being unleashed on innocent and vulnerable in Gaza," he said.

Dutch winger of Moroccan descent helped PSV Eindhoven win the Dutch Super Cup and the Dutch Cup.

The 28-year-old has two caps for the Netherlands.

Meanwhile, Mainz 05 are bottom of the standings with three points.