Moroccan Soccer Star Faces Harassment in Egypt Amid Club Rivalry Tensions

– bySaid@Bladi · 1 min read
Moroccan Soccer Star Faces Harassment in Egypt Amid Club Rivalry Tensions

Mohamed Chibi, a Moroccan international player playing for the Egyptian club Pyramids, is facing numerous pressures in Egypt. This situation stems from a dispute with Hussein El Shahat, an iconic player of the rival club Al Ahly.

According to Egyptian media, Chibi would be subjected to daily harassment and pressure, such as his recent expulsion from a restaurant whose owner is a fervent supporter of Al Ahly.

On July 23, 2023, during a match between Pyramids FC and Al Ahly, the Moroccan player Mohamed Chibi was the victim of physical aggression and threats from Hussein El-Shahat, an Al Ahly player.

According to Chibi, the events unfolded in two stages. During the Super Cup in the United Arab Emirates, he suffered insults and offensive remarks targeting his parents. Then, during the July 23 match, he was the victim of provocations and blows.

"Before today’s incident and before the slap, there had been threats to break my leg," Chibi said. "I was told: ’If you had started the match, I would have broken your leg.’" Threats that, according to him, endanger his future in Egyptian football.

Despite the provocation, Chibi chose not to react violently. "I could have easily reacted the same way, or even more," he explained. "But the respect for the internal rules of the club and my superiors at the Pyramids FC club pushed me to avoid any reaction at that time."