Bentayk vs Zamalek: Legal Clash Escalates as FIFA Sanctions Loom
16 January 2026
Sharp legal escalation
Backdrop of the Bentayk-Zamalek Row
The Moroccan Mahmoud Bentayk's dispute with Zamalek has entered a new escalation phase, after an official inside the club's football administration disclosed details and the behind-the-scenes of the clash that exploded back in December.
The source explained that from the outset Zamalek opened direct channels with the player's agent in a genuine effort to contain the issue and resolve any misunderstandings, but the agent conditioned settlement of his overdue commission as the sole entry point to a solution, making things harder. He noted that the club's attempts at dialogue were sometimes thwarted by the agent's insistence on immediate commissions.
The source noted that circulating rumors of the club ignoring the player or failing to communicate were not true, describing those claims as attempts to paint an inaccurate picture of the crisis and the club's stance.
The club stressed that Bentayk's legal position is strong and intact, denying any right to unilaterally terminate the contract, and insisting that the agreement remains valid and binding in all respects.
In this context, Zamalek issued a stern warning to the player, confirming that signing with another club without official permission would expose him to strict sanctions from FIFA, potentially long suspensions, large fines, and club penalties, which may include a transfer ban.
The club also said Bentayk has received all his financial dues on time under the contract, denying any gap that would justify departure or termination, and stressed ledger entries were verified by the finance department.
The absence from training will not be tolerated, calling the act a serious breach of contract and warning of possible technical and financial damage to the player; the club will guard its rights and will not allow contract evasion, taking all necessary steps to protect the entity's interests, and supporters are urged to await official statements.
Punchline 1: If contracts had GPS, Bentayk would still be navigating the fine print.
Punchline 2: And if money talks, FIFA would need subtitles for this negotiation show.