Mostafa Mohamed has finally reported to Nantes for pre-season training, ending weeks of uncertainty surrounding the Egyptian striker's future at the French club. The 28-year-old arrived at the training centre earlier this week and completed an individual session on Wednesday, following his exclusion from Egypt's 2026 World Cup squad and a delayed return that left the Ligue 2 side frustrated.
Mohamed was expected to report on 24 June but failed to appear, prompting Nantes to send daily messages warning that salary payments would be withheld until his arrival. Coach Michel Der Zakarian expressed his irritation with the situation, stating he had never encountered such behaviour from a player before. Der Zakarian made clear the club's stance: "The player does not want to come to training. That is his problem, not ours."
Disciplinary Action and Contract Standoff
The club has imposed initial disciplinary measures, assigning Mohamed to train with the reserve team until further notice. This punishment reflects the tension between player and club following Nantes' relegation to France's second division, which triggered a salary reduction that has intensified Mohamed's desire to leave. The former Galatasaray and Zamalek striker signed a deal worth 6.5 million euros in 2023, yet faces limited transfer options with just one year remaining on his contract.
Nantes hold firm on their valuation despite the striker's uncertain position. The club, an eight-time Ligue 1 champion, is not relying on Mohamed to lead their promotion campaign back to the top flight but refuses to release him without compensation. With offer levels remaining modest across European markets, the Egyptian international now faces a crucial period where his next move will define both his career trajectory and Nantes' rebuilding plans for the 2024-25 season.
