After days of speculation, Bayern Munich have made an official statement after a post by Moroccan right-back Noussair Mazraoui on Instagram drew criticism from circles in Germany for its apparent pro-Palestine viewpoint.
The statement by the club reads as follows:
FC Bayern Munich held a detailed and clarifying conversation with Noussair Mazraoui this week. The reason for the discussion was Mazraoui's Instagram posts in connection with the terror against Israel almost two weeks ago, which led to irritation and criticism.
“Noussair Mazraoui has credibly assured us that, as a peace-loving person, he resolutely rejects terror and war. He regrets if his posts have caused irritation,” says Jan-Christian Dreesen, CEO of FC Bayern, and explains: “FC Bayern condemns Hamas’ attack on Israel.” - “In addition,” explains Noussair Mazraoui, “I condemn every kind of terrorism and every terrorist organization.”
FC Bayern and Noussair Mazraoui strongly oppose the transfer of the Middle East conflict and its violence to Germany, which is committed to peace. Hate and violence of any kind have no place in the political culture of Germany.
FC Bayern stands by Germany's Jewish community and by Israel's side; nothing justifies the murder of children and families.
FC Bayern believes that football should unleash its power of reconciliation between different cultures, especially in the most difficult moments. Noussair Mazraoui will remain in the FC Bayern squad, but is out of action due to an injury he sustained.