كتب : Omar Zaazou
Zidan, who joined Mainz on loan from Borussia Dortmund in the winter break, celebrated his returning debut goal in a 1-1 draw against Schalke in controversial fashion, few days following the Port-Said disaster that rocked Egypt on February 1.
Although he said he was 'shocked' after the horrific incident, Zidan’s obvious ecstasy prompted critics to slate him for not respecting his countrymen’s feelings in the wake of the calamity that saw 77 supporters killed.
“Egyptians who took to the streets calling for liberty and freedom of expression should not be questioning my way of celebrating goals,” the Port-Said born hitman said in an interview with ZDF.
“I’ve been on the sidelines for quite a long time; I did not even play half a season with Dortmund.
“But in the end I understand why some people came down hard on me.”
Zidan, who scored in every game for Mainz so far, also raised a few eyebrows when he used a baby pacifier to celebrate his goal against Hanover, in what he described as a tribute to his son.
Mubarak kiss
Zidan played down another controversial incident that saw him kiss the hand of toppled president Hosni Mubarak following the CAN 2010 triumph, a gesture that caused the dismay of many Egyptians.
“It happened two years ago. They should not be talking about it now,” the 30-year-old added.
Speaking to Egyptian media a few days ago, Zidan implied that he felt sorry for Mubarak, whom he considered to be 'a father to Egyptians' during his 30-year reign.