Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli faces backlash in Morocco over Ceuta solidarity gesture

Real Betis and Morocco winger Abde Ezzalzouli has faced a strong wave of criticism in his homeland following his involvement in a pre-match solidarity initiative linked to the Spanish autonomous city of Ceuta.

The 24-year-old was involved in the initiative ahead of Real Betis’ La Liga meeting with Villarreal, with both teams taking to the pitch wearing shirts carrying a message of support for residents of Ceuta.

However, the gesture quickly became controversial in Morocco because of the sensitive political status of the territory. Ceuta is located on the North African coast and Morocco disputes Spain’s sovereignty over the city.

Ezzalzouli’s participation therefore triggered criticism from sections of the Moroccan public, with some social media users accusing the national team winger of acting against Morocco’s interests.

The backlash intensified online, forcing the Betis forward to temporarily hide posts on his social media profile as the controversy continued to grow.

Seeking to clarify his position and explain the circumstances surrounding the gesture, Ezzalzouli subsequently issued a statement on Instagram, insisting that the initiative was not intended to carry any political message or show disrespect towards Morocco.

“I am writing this statement to clarify the situation that occurred during the league match against Villarreal. First of all, I want to make it clear that this shirt bearing a message of support for the residents of Ceuta was in no way used for political purposes or to show disrespect toward my people — the Moroccan people,” Ezzalzouli said.

According to the Morocco international, the initiative was purely social and aimed at showing support for people going through a difficult situation, regardless of their nationality.

“It was a social initiative intended to support the population and its residents, regardless of their nationality, as they were going through a difficult situation,” he added.

Ezzalzouli also acknowledged that people were entitled to question his decision, but insisted that his actions should not be interpreted as a lack of love for his country or his Moroccan roots.

“Nevertheless, this is not an excuse for anyone. And all those who wish to use this to question my love for my country have the right to do so. As for me, I will continue to live every day with my head held high and represent my roots with pride and dedication,” he stated.

The controversy comes against the backdrop of Ezzalzouli’s continued importance at club and international level. The winger has been a regular figure for Real Betis since joining the Andalusian side from Barcelona in September 2023.

During the 2025/26 season, Ezzalzouli made 43 appearances for Betis across all competitions, registering 15 goals and 13 assists, underlining his growing influence in the Spanish side’s attack.

According to Transfermarkt, the Moroccan international currently has a reported market value of €40 million.

Despite the controversy surrounding his involvement in the solidarity initiative, Ezzalzouli has reaffirmed his commitment to representing his Moroccan roots with pride as he continues his career with Real Betis and the national team.