Nantes Coach Criticizes Mostafa Mohamed Over Training Absence

Nantes head coach Michel Der Zakarian has criticized Egyptian striker Mostafa Mohamed for missing preseason preparations amid uncertainty over his future.

  Sun , July 12 2026 / 05:42 PM Updated At: 2026-07-12 17:42:08

Egyptian striker Mostafa Mohamed has become the center of attention at French club Nantes after continuing to miss preseason preparations ahead of the new season.

Nantes head coach Michel Der Zakarian expressed his frustration with the player’s absence, while uncertainty continues to surround Mohamed’s future with the club.

Mostafa Mohamed Misses Nantes Friendly Match

Mostafa Mohamed was absent from Nantes’ friendly match against Fleury, which ended with a 5-0 victory for Nantes during the team’s preseason preparations.

His absence disappointed the coaching staff, as preseason training is considered essential for players to regain fitness and prepare for official competitions.

Nantes Coach Criticizes Mostafa Mohamed

Speaking after the match to French newspaper Ouest-France, Der Zakarian said: “I have never seen anything like this before.”

The Nantes manager added: “We see many illogical things in football these days. He made his own decision, and we will see what happens when he returns.”

The comments reflect growing frustration within the club regarding the player’s situation.

Why Is Mostafa Mohamed Missing Nantes Training?

Reports suggest that Mostafa Mohamed’s absence may be linked to his dissatisfaction with a salary reduction following Nantes’ relegation to the French second division.

The situation has reportedly created tension between the Egyptian forward and the club’s management, with no clear decision yet regarding his future.

Mostafa Mohamed Left Out of Egypt’s 2026 World Cup Squad

Mostafa Mohamed was also not included in Egypt’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after head coach Hossam Hassan decided to exclude him and rely on Mostafa Zico in attack.

The striker is now looking to resolve his future and regain his form, whether by staying at Nantes or moving to another club.

Nantes Prepare for Ligue 2 Campaign

Nantes will compete in the French second division next season after being relegated following a poor league campaign.

The club is aiming to rebuild its squad and return quickly to the top flight, making the presence of key players important during preseason preparations.

Why did Nantes coach criticize Mostafa Mohamed?

Because the striker continued to miss preseason training and friendly matches.

Did Mostafa Mohamed miss a Nantes friendly match?

Yes, he missed the friendly game against Fleury, which Nantes won 5-0.

What is the reason behind Mostafa Mohamed’s issue with Nantes?

Reports suggest it is related to dissatisfaction over a salary reduction after relegation.

Where will Nantes play next season?

Nantes will compete in the French second division after relegation.

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