Egypt striker Mostafa Mohamed’s future at Nantes in fresh doubt after training absence

Egypt international Mostafa Mohamed’s future at Nantes has become increasingly uncertain after head coach Michel Der Zakarian revealed the club has struggled to establish contact with the striker since pre-season training resumed.

The 28-year-old has not reported to the French club’s training base since preparations for the new campaign began on 24 June, prompting disciplinary action from Nantes as uncertainty continues to surround his future.

Nantes coach questions striker’s absence

Speaking ahead of Saturday’s friendly against Lorient, Der Zakarian admitted the club has been unable to determine Mohamed’s whereabouts.

“We don’t know where he is. We call him and sometimes he doesn’t answer.”

The Nantes coach said the club remains in contact with the Egyptian forward but stressed that the responsibility for his absence lies with the player.

“The club is in contact with him, but I haven’t contacted him personally. The player doesn’t want to come to training, and that’s his fault, not ours. We don’t pay his salary, that’s all there is to it. If he doesn’t want to come, then he should stay at home.”

Financial penalty imposed

Mohamed has missed all of Nantes’ pre-season activities, including the club’s opening friendly match, a 5-0 victory over third-tier side Fleury.

The Ligue 2 club has responded by imposing a financial penalty on the Egypt international while awaiting clarity over his situation.

Der Zakarian acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the striker’s future.

“We are witnessing a lot of contradictions in football today. He decided to do this, and we will see what happens when he returns.”

Uncertain future for Egypt international

Mohamed, who has earned 61 caps and scored 14 goals for Egypt, is entering the final year of his contract with Nantes.

Since joining the French club in 2023, the striker has scored 29 goals in 136 appearances, but his continued absence from pre-season has cast further doubt over whether he will remain at the club for the upcoming campaign.