Moroccan football club Raja is embroiled in a dispute over its leadership, with some members calling for the resignation of president Jawad Ziyat. The club has had a tumultuous start to the season, with poor results leading to the sacking of coach Paco Jimenez after just five games. This has sparked divisions among the club's members, with some opposing the idea of an extraordinary general assembly to discuss Ziyat's future.

According to sources, a meeting was held last weekend between Raja members, which highlighted the divisions within the club. One faction, comprising members of the club's parliament, opposes holding an extraordinary general assembly and wants Ziyat to remain as president. They argue that this would create more chaos and instead advocate for dialogue and coordination to address the club's issues.

However, another faction within the club's membership is calling for an extraordinary general assembly to discuss Ziyat's removal and a comprehensive review of the club's sporting, administrative, financial, and technical aspects. They want to hold accountable those responsible for the club's poor start to the season. This faction is pushing for a thorough examination of the club's contracts and decision-making processes.

The dispute has also drawn in the association of former Raja players, which has called for a truce and unity among club members. They argue that the current situation requires all Raja supporters to come together to help the team recover and achieve its goals, both domestically and in the Confederation Cup.

Meanwhile, the "Curva Sud" supporters' group has continued its boycott of Raja matches, citing the club's decision to restrict access to the Arabi Zaouli stadium for members with valid membership cards. Despite attempts by the club to clarify the situation, the Curva Sud group has refused to back down and has vowed to continue its boycott until a resolution is found.

The boycott has already affected Raja's matches, including the recent game against Ittihad Tanger. The Curva Sud group's actions have added to the pressure on the club's leadership to address the concerns of its members and supporters. Raja's performance on the pitch has suffered as a result of the off-field tensions.

The situation at Raja highlights the challenges faced by Moroccan football clubs in balancing the interests of different stakeholders, including members, supporters, and sponsors. The club's leadership will need to navigate these complex issues to restore stability and achieve success on the pitch. The coming days will be crucial in determining the future of Raja and its president, Jawad Ziyat.

Key points

  • Raja members are divided over the future of president Jawad Ziyat.
  • The club's poor start to the season has led to the sacking of coach Paco Jimenez.
  • Supporters' group Curva Sud has boycotted Raja matches over access restrictions to the stadium.

Reporting sources

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.