Zamalek striker Nasser Mansi issues fresh apology after shirt-throwing in Rwandan Army

Zamalek striker Nasser Mansi has issued a fresh clarification over his controversial celebration during the club’s CAF Champions League match against Rwanda’s Army, insisting that the incident was driven by a moment of excitement and the pressure of competition.

The Egyptian forward sparked controversy after throwing away his Zamalek shirt following his decisive goal against the Rwandan side, prompting disciplinary action from the club.

Zamalek subsequently announced Mansi’s suspension and referred him for an internal investigation over his conduct, which attracted criticism from sections of the club’s supporters.

The striker had already apologised to the club following the incident, with football director Abdel Nasser Mohamed imposing a hefty fine as punishment for his actions.

However, Mansi has now offered further clarification, explaining that his reaction was an emotional response to the circumstances of the match rather than a deliberate act of disrespect towards the club.

In a statement shared on his Instagram account, the forward acknowledged the incident and reiterated his apology to everyone associated with Zamalek.

“To further clarify what happened during the last match, it was just a moment of excitement and the result of the pressures on the field that players generally face, which are unjustified in the world of professionalism and end with victory and triumphs,” Mansi wrote.

He also extended his apology to the club’s supporters, management, technical staff and teammates, recognising the importance of maintaining professionalism while representing the Egyptian giants.

“I reiterate my apology to the public, the administration, the technical staff led by Captain Moataz Gamal, and my fellow players. God willing, the future will be better, we promise you. Stay behind us,” he added.

The incident has placed Mansi under scrutiny at a time when Zamalek are competing in continental football, with the club keen to maintain discipline and protect its image.

Although the striker’s goal proved decisive against Army, his subsequent celebration overshadowed the achievement and forced the club to address his conduct.

Mansi will now be hoping to move beyond the controversy and regain the full confidence of the club’s hierarchy and supporters as Zamalek continue their campaign.