According to Sport, Real Betis player Abde issued a statement regarding the controversy sparked by his wearing of a T-shirt in support of Ceuta. He emphasized that the action had no political purpose and was in no way disrespectful to his home country Morocco or the Moroccan people, but was purely a humanitarian gesture.

Before Real Betis' away match against Villarreal, Abde and players from both sides took to the field wearing T-shirts bearing the words "Todos Somos Ceutaníes (We Are All Ceutans)" to express solidarity with Ceuta's residents.

The initiative was launched by home side Villarreal, with Real Betis also participating. The two clubs previously stated that they aimed to "send a message of support, solidarity, and respect to the residents of Ceuta, to help them resume normal daily life and social and economic activities as soon as possible. Ceuta is not alone; we are all Ceutans."

However, Abde's gesture subsequently triggered a fierce backlash in Morocco, with the player receiving severe criticism and threats from some. In the initial aftermath, sources close to Abde told media that the player was unaware of the shirt's specific message and did not know what was written on it.

Abde subsequently issued an official statement on social media to clarify the matter.

Abde wrote: "I am issuing this statement to clarify an incident that occurred yesterday during the league match against Villarreal."

"First, I want to make it clear that this T-shirt, which concerns the people of Ceuta, was in no way used for any political purpose, nor was there any intention to demean or disrespect my people—the Moroccan people. This is a humanitarian T-shirt aimed at supporting a group of people and residents who are going through a difficult time, regardless of their nationality."

Regarding the external questions surrounding the matter, Abde stressed that he would not apologize: "But I want to say that this is not an apology to anyone. Anyone who wants to use this incident to question my love for my country is welcome to do so. I will continue to walk with my head held high every day and keep representing my roots with pride and dedication."

Abde was born in Beni Mellal, Morocco, and later grew up in Elche, Spain. When choosing his senior national team affiliation, he ultimately opted to represent Morocco and has since earned 43 caps for the Moroccan national team, scoring 4 goals.

Real Betis subsequently retweeted Abde's statement, publicly expressing support for the player. The club wrote: "This is an example of solidarity and humanity. Ezzalzouli, we will always stand with you."

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