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Bentayk vs Zamalek: Legal Clash Escalates as FIFA Sanctions Loom

16 January 2026

Bentayk vs Zamalek: Legal Clash Escalates as FIFA Sanctions Loom
Bentayk and Zamalek’s legal clash deepens as FIFA warnings loom

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.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

What triggered the dispute between Bentayk and Zamalek?

The agent's demand to settle overdue commissions as the entry point, despite ongoing discussions and the club's insistence that the contract remains valid.

Has Bentayk been paid according to the contract?

Yes, the club states that Bentayk has received all due payments on time under the agreement.

What could FIFA do in this situation?

FIFA sanctions could include long suspensions, heavy fines, and potential club penalties such as transfer bans if the player signs elsewhere without clearance.