An Egyptian football fan has been detained after a video surfaced online in which he threatened Zamalek star Ahmed Sayed Zizo over a potential transfer. The incident, which quickly went viral, prompted swift action from the authorities.
In the widely circulated video, the individual can be seen issuing a stark warning to Zizo, urging him not to leave Zamalek or fail to renew his contract.
The fan used the alarming phrase, “Zamalek or death,” to emphasize his point. The video fueled widespread discussion on social media, raising concerns about the safety of athletes and the pressures they face.
The Egyptian Ministry of Interior responded to the incident with an official statement shared on its Facebook page.
The statement read: “The details of a video circulating on social media featuring a fan threatening a player have been uncovered.”
It further explained, “In the video, a fan threatened a player who represents a team in the Egyptian League, warning against a potential transfer to another club.”
Authorities quickly identified the suspect, who resides in Qalyub, a city in Egypt’s Qalyubia Governorate.
Following his arrest, the individual admitted that his intention was to gain online attention and increase his chances of going viral, with hopes of generating financial rewards.
The Ministry confirmed that legal procedures against the fan are underway, emphasizing the importance of holding individuals accountable for threats and harassment.
This case highlights the growing challenges posed by social media platforms, where individuals often seek notoriety without fully considering the consequences of their actions.
Ahmed Sayed Zizo, a key player for Zamalek, is approaching the end of his contract with the Egyptian club.
His current deal is set to expire at the conclusion of the season, allowing him to negotiate with other teams as a free agent starting in January.
The situation underscores the intense scrutiny and pressure faced by players navigating contract renewals and potential transfers.
While Zizo has yet to make a public statement regarding the incident, the actions of the fan have added a layer of controversy to an already pivotal moment in the player’s career.
The arrest serves as a reminder of the legal and ethical boundaries in sports fandom, as authorities work to ensure the safety and well-being of athletes across the country.