The coach of Esperance de Tunis, Maher Kanzari, is facing criticism and backlash for making what is perceived as a disrespectful gesture during the 2-2 draw against Etoile du Sahel in Tunisia.
After Ahmed Akaichi scored the equalizing goal for Esperance in the 86th minute, Maher Kanzari made an arm of honor gesture to celebrate. This gesture has been poorly received by the local press and has sparked indignation on social media.
In his defense, Kanzari explained that the gesture was directed towards some Esperance supporters who had been criticizing him: “I respect the Star a lot, and I have nothing against you. The gesture I made was for some Esperance supporters; I was on my nerves, and I knew that many were waiting for me around the corner. When Akaichi equalized, unconsciously I made this gesture for them, not for you.”
While Kanzari claims the gesture was not meant to disrespect Etoile du Sahel, it has nonetheless generated controversy and negative reactions, highlighting the sensitivity of such actions in football and their impact on public perception.
