Anwar El Ghazi’s unfair dismissal win against Mainz upheld by German court | OneFootball

Anwar El Ghazi has had his unfair dismissal victory over Mainz upheld, closing a legal dispute dating back to 2023.

On Thursday a German labour court rejected Mainz’s attempt to secure leave to appeal a previous finding, exhausting the club’s options and making the decision legally binding. The court said the freedom of expression outweighed the club’s interests.

The winger had been suspended by the Bundesliga side after sharing social media posts that included the phrase "from the river to the sea, Palestine will be free". The slogan is seen by some as a call for Israel’s destruction, while others say it appeals for equality for Palestinians and Israelis.

Mainz later set his return on the condition he distanced himself from the comments. He refused, and his contract was terminated with immediate effect.

He won the unfair termination case in July 2024 and was awarded more than 1.5 million Euros.

El Ghazi helped Aston Villa win the Championship play-offs in 2019, scored 26 goals in 119 games, and is currently playing in Qatar.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com