Mostafa Mohamed has confirmed he will not feature for FC Nantes in their upcoming fixture against Montpellier, citing personal beliefs and values as the reason for his decision.
The Egyptian international took to Instagram to share a statement outlining the rationale behind his absence, which he described as a deeply personal choice grounded in his cultural and religious identity.
His announcement comes amid ongoing conversations in French football around inclusivity initiatives, some of which players have opted out of in the past for personal or religious reasons.
“I will not participate in the match against Montpellier tomorrow,” Mohamed wrote in his post. “Everyone carries within them a history, a culture, and a sensitivity. Living together also means recognizing that this diversity can be expressed differently depending on the individual.”
The 26-year-old striker, who has been a key figure for Nantes this season, emphasized that his decision should not be viewed as an act of defiance or exclusion.
Rather, he presented it as a matter of personal integrity and consistency with his faith.
“I believe in mutual respect, the respect we owe to others, but also the respect we owe to ourselves and our beliefs,” he continued. “For my part, certain deeply rooted values, linked to my origins and my faith, make my participation in this initiative difficult.”
Mohamed did not elaborate on the nature of the initiative in question, but his remarks suggest that it involved a campaign or symbolic gesture that conflicted with his personal convictions.
His absence follows similar decisions made by other players in recent seasons who have also chosen not to take part in league-wide inclusivity efforts for faith-based reasons.
“This choice is personal,” Mohamed concluded. “It expresses neither rejection nor judgment, simply a loyalty to what builds me.”
The Egyptian forward’s message has sparked widespread discussion across social media and among pundits, with many expressing support for his right to act in accordance with his conscience.
Others have called for a broader dialogue about how professional sport can accommodate diverse beliefs while promoting unity and respect.
FC Nantes have yet to issue an official statement regarding Mohamed’s decision, and it remains unclear whether the club will impose any disciplinary measures or publicly comment.
Mohamed, however, appears to retain the support of a significant section of the fanbase, who have praised his openness and clarity.
This is not the first time Mostafa Mohamed has addressed sensitive topics in the public arena. Known for his strong sense of identity, the Egyptian striker has consistently highlighted the importance of staying true to his values, both on and off the pitch.
Since joining Nantes from Galatasaray, Mohamed has become a central figure in the squad, admired not only for his goal-scoring ability but also for his leadership and poise.
His absence against Montpellier will be notable as the club continues to battle in Ligue 1, where every point remains crucial in the closing stages of the season.
As football continues to serve as a platform for wider social discussions, Mohamed’s decision adds to an ongoing conversation about the intersection of personal belief, public representation, and respect in the modern game.
