- Anwar El Ghazi’s contract was terminated due to a pro-Palestinian post
- There is a major debate going on in Germany about freedom of expression
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The The bitter legal dispute between Anwar El Ghazi and Mainz has escalated after it emerged that the Bundesliga will seek financial damages from the former Aston Villa star to pay for a new striker.
El Ghazi and Mainz are embroiled in a legal feud after the German side canceled the Holland International’s contract after he posted pro-Palestinian messages on social media as the Israeli-Hamas conflict broke out.
There has been a major debate in Germany about freedom of expression regarding El Ghazi’s situation.
The 28-year-old attacker is suing Mainz, but the club has filed a counterclaim against their former player.
A conciliatory legal tribunal was held last week but did not result in a resolution, meaning a final hearing will take place in June.
Mainz has announced that Anwar El Ghazi’s contract has been terminated with immediate effect
The Bundesliga side confirmed the move after El Ghazi reiterated his stance on Instagram
El Ghazi responded to the termination of his contract with a post on Instagram Stories
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And Mail Sport understands part of Mainz’s legal argument, in their position as defendant, stating that they reserve the right to seek further damages from El Ghazi so that the club can finance the signing of a new striker as his replacement .
Although it was Mainz who initiated the sacking, the club claim that because they signed El Ghazi on a two-year contract in September 2023, their inability to use the forward has created a sporting challenge.
Mainz claims that as a result they are entitled to financial compensation.
In support of their claim, Mainz have cited the fact that they are in a relegation battle as the reason why they want to sign a new striker this month to boost their chances of staying at the top.
With that in mind, Mainz are prepared to seek damages from El Ghazi to help with the costs of any transfer-related expenses this month.