Ibrahim Maza has come under criticism from supporters of Bayer Leverkusen after posting a photograph of himself wearing a Borussia Dortmund shirt during a short holiday break.
The 20-year-old Algeria international, regarded as one of Leverkusen’s emerging stars this season, found himself at the centre of controversy after images circulated widely across social media platforms.
The photograph showed Maza wearing a Borussia Dortmund jersey belonging to fellow Algeria national football team player Ramy Bensebaini.
Although the image appeared to be linked to a personal moment during the player’s vacation before joining Algeria’s national team camp ahead of the 2026 World Cup preparations, it nevertheless sparked anger among sections of the Leverkusen fanbase.
Supporters of the German club reportedly viewed the image negatively because of the rivalry between Leverkusen and Dortmund, leading to criticism directed at the young midfielder online.
According to reports in German media, some fans reacted strongly enough to call for the player to be sold.
One supporter was quoted as saying: “He should be sold immediately.”
The backlash marks a sharp contrast to the praise Maza had received throughout much of the season following his rapid development in German football.
Since joining Bayer Leverkusen from Hertha BSC during the summer of 2025, Maza has adapted quickly to both Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League football.
The midfielder made 44 appearances in all competitions during the campaign, scoring five goals and contributing seven assists.
His performances earned widespread admiration from observers and supporters, while he was also nominated for the Bundesliga’s Best Young Player award, eventually finishing third in the voting.
Maza has additionally become an increasingly important figure for Algeria since the most recent Africa Cup of Nations, strengthening his reputation as one of the country’s most promising talents.
However, the recent controversy has highlighted the intense scrutiny footballers face on social media, where even seemingly routine actions can trigger major reactions among supporters.
Many Leverkusen fans reportedly interpreted the image as unprofessional behaviour, despite there being no indication of a transfer or formal connection between the player and Borussia Dortmund.
Speculation intensified further because Maza has already attracted interest from several major European clubs ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
The uncertainty surrounding his future has led some supporters to view any association with rival clubs more critically.
In contrast, reactions from Dortmund supporters were reportedly more relaxed.
One Borussia Dortmund fan commented on the image by saying: “We will gladly add him to our team,” reflecting the growing reputation the Algerian midfielder has developed this season.
The incident also underlined how football rivalries increasingly extend beyond matches and into players’ online activity, with supporters often closely monitoring social media posts, interactions and public appearances.
It is not the first time an Algerian footballer has encountered criticism over wearing a rival club’s shirt.
Last season, Anis Hadj Moussa, who plays for Feyenoord, faced similar reactions after appearing in a PSV Eindhoven jersey during preparations for the new campaign.
For Maza, the episode represents an unexpected controversy during what had otherwise been a breakthrough season for both club and country.
