A screenshot from social media. Serdar Azmoun's posts were interpreted as support for UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed, with whom he took a joint photo
The decision to exclude the player was made against the backdrop of escalating military conflict in the Middle East. His posts, in which he is pictured with the UAE leader, sparked criticism and were interpreted as betrayal.
The message also mentions potential consequences for Azmoun, including the confiscation of his property.
Additionally, in December 2025, he supported mass protests in Iran, which may have also affected his reputation.
Serdar Azmoun has substantial experience in Russian football, having started his career at Rubin Kazan. He also played in the Champions League with Rostov and has won the Russian championship several times with Zenit. In Europe, his career continued at clubs such as German Bayer and Italian Roma.
