Anwar El Ghazi to Cardiff is happening as he also speaks out on being ‘unfairly dismissed’ by Mainz over his post about Gaza.
The Dutch footballer was caught up in a controversy that led to his contract termination by Mainz, officially confirmed today, after he posted his support for Gaza on social media.
The situation escalated when Mainz decided to cancel his contract due to his social media posts, but the decision was later deemed wrongful by a German court, and El Ghazi was awarded over £1 million in unpaid wages and bonuses.
Following this, El Ghazi has now sealed a move to Championship outfit Cardiff City, marking a new chapter in his career, which has seen him play for clubs like Aston Villa and Everton in the Premier League, as well as PSV Eindhoven in the Netherlands.
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Mainz terminated Anwer El Ghazi contract because of his social media post on the Israel-Palestine war.
This was his response. 👇 pic.twitter.com/amBYekw3GY
— The Sportsman (@TheSportsman) November 3, 2023
He said in a statement on social media on Wednesday (31 July): “First and foremost, all praise and glory to God who I can never thank enough for the countless blessings and the strength in standing for the vulnerable, voiceless and oppressed in Gaza in the face of what has been described by many as a genocide.
“My contract with FSV Mainz has now been officially terminated today.
“It is difficult for me to celebrate my recent legal victory when the apocalyptic assault on the defenceless civilians and children in Gaza continues as I type this message.
“My case is a victory for freedom of speech against the unjustified and illegal actions of FSV Mainz in attempting to terminate my contract for simply standing for humanity and what is right.
“For the sake of the brave, innocent and honourable children of Gaza who are no Longer with us Like Hind Rajab and Reem, we cannot allow others to silence us from speaking against atrocities and indiscriminate bombings which injure, maim and kill hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians and children. It would be unconscionable to remain silent whilst we witness what is happening in Gaza. No state or individual can be beyond accountability and above the Law.
“I hope my case gives strength to others, particularly those with a platform and influence, to keep talking about Gaza and calling for an end to the decades long incarceration of a people who deserve to live in freedom and with dignity as much as any other human.
“Whilst I would sacrifice my career a million times over to stand against tyrants mercilessly killing and maiming innocent children, I am fortunate that my incarceration from doing what I love was only a matter of months. I am now ready to go again and play football at the highest level thanks to the support and love of those around me. In particular, I would like to thank my family, my friends and Nujum Sports for standing beside me and supporting me through the trials and tribulations of the last 9 months when the silence of many inside and outside football was deafening.
“Finally, to the children of Gaza, I love you and will stand for you until my last breath.”
Big football and free speech story that passed many of us by. Last year ex-Aston Villa player Anwar El Ghazi had his contract at Mainz in Germany terminated for social media posts about Gaza. Yes, he was cancelled. By the way, well done @IpswichTown for not doing the same with… pic.twitter.com/5v56UHqiIH
— Omid Djalili (@omid9) June 27, 2024
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This is what Twitter users had to say with Anwar El Ghazi to Cardiff as he speaks out on being ‘unfairly dismissed’ by Mainz over a post about what is happening in Gaza…
@DeeKayAVFC: You are a good man, Anwar. 💜🩵
@RyanCCFC20: Welcome to the capital 💙
@I_Hopkins1: welcome aboard the Bulut train 🚂🚂🚂
@CmOverdose: We will always have your back Anwar and thank you for making a stand for what is right. Hopefully you can now get back to playing professional football. UTV
@Danvilla84: Using his platform for the good of humanity.. always got time for el goalzi #UTV 💜💙💜
@cissystrutter: Love you Anwar. 👏
@Task_Force_1707: Unbelievable man, a professional sportsperson standing up for what matters despite facing an end of a career. Need more such people, esp in sports, films, etc. Can’t wait to see Mainz get folded the diabolical cunts.
@p____67: This guy 👏🏼
@AlwaystheVillan: The Villa family is with you mate. Glad justice was done in your case.
@NotFernandoNels: Proud of you Anwar. UTV
@mjenkins1927: Great statement! Totally with you at Cardiff City!
@Shefkee: Respect Anwar, veel succes in Cardiff!
@DeeKayAVFC: You are a good man, Anwar. 💜🩵
@godzvilla01: 🎶 Ain’t Nobody Like El Ghazi 🎶 #AVFC #PARTOFTHEPRIDE #UTV 🟣 🔵 Time to let your feet do the talking again 🤩
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