Marius Siabanis, goalkeeper for Greek Super League side Volos, has expressed profound remorse following a collision that caused serious injury to Ayoub El Kaabi during Saturday's third-round fixture. The incident unfolded in the 43rd minute when the Moroccan striker went down with a fracture after a challenge involving the goalkeeper during an attacking sequence.
El Kaabi crumpled to the pitch in visible distress, immediately signaling the severity of the injury. Medical staff rushed to his aid as the player writhed in pain on the turf. The collision proved costly for the Moroccan international, whose absence could impact his club's campaign in the coming weeks. Injuries of this magnitude typically sideline players for extended periods, depending on rehabilitation timelines and the specific nature of the fracture sustained.
Goalkeeper's Public Apology
Following the match conclusion, Siabanis took to Instagram to address the incident directly. In a message posted to his story, the Volos goalkeeper stated: "I am so sorry for what happened today, Ayoub. I had no intention of hurting you, and it was extremely painful to see you in such pain. My thoughts are with you. I wish you strength, a full recovery and a return to the pitch as soon as possible, when you are ready."
The goalkeeper's prompt public acknowledgment reflects the growing practice among professional athletes of taking accountability for on-field incidents, even when unintentional. Such gestures help maintain respect within the footballing community and demonstrate sportsmanship beyond the final whistle. El Kaabi will now focus on his recovery while his medical team assesses the full extent of the damage and charts a rehabilitation pathway back to competitive action.
