Morocco international Ez Abde has stated he will not apologise for wearing a shirt in solidarity with residents of Ceuta. The winger faced significant online criticism after donning the shirt ahead of Real Betis's LaLiga match against Villarreal on Monday.
Abde said: "At no point was the shirt referring to the people of Ceuta used with a political purpose or as a sign of disrespect toward my people, the Moroccan people." He added: "It was a shirt with a social purpose, intended to support a community." The forward stated that anyone wishing to question his love for Morocco is free to do so, affirming he will continue to live each day with his head held high.
Reaction and Support
Players from both teams wore shirts bearing the slogan 'Todos somos caballas', a nickname for people from Ceuta, at the Estadio de la Ceramica. Abde's gesture came after irregular crossings into Ceuta from neighbouring Morocco occurred in July. Following the player's statement, both LaLiga and his club Real Betis posted public messages of support for him.
Player Background
Born in Beni Mellal, Morocco, Abde moved to Spain with his family at the age of seven. Eligible to represent both Morocco and Spain, he chose to play for Morocco, making his senior international debut in September 2022. This stance comes as the Moroccan national team sits second in World Cup qualifying, having scored six goals and conceded three. The full standings and recent fixtures, including a win over Canada and a draw with the Netherlands, are available.
Morocco prepares to face Gabon at home on 25 September as qualifying continues, with Achraf Hakimi and Ayoub El Kaabi currently sidelined through injury. The team's form in its last five matches reads three wins, one draw, and one defeat.
The original report is at Straits Times Sport
