Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed Abou-Gabal (L) and Ivory Coast s goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangare (R) react during a penalty shoot-out during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) 2021 round of 16 football match between Ivory Coast and Egypt at Stade de Japoma in Douala on January 26, 2022 (AFP)
Gabaski signed a deal to join Al-Nassr after his contract with Cairo giants Zamalek expired. The agency representing him said the club had suddenly annulled the contract without just cause.
"The player was keen on joining Al-Nassr's pre-season preparations as he repeatedly asked through his lawyer to obtain an entry visa to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and issue travel tickets to join the team," Echo Content Sports, which represents Gabaski, said in a statement.
"However, he was surprised by the official response that the club does not recognize the contract concluded between the two parties and that it is invalid for reasons we deem as illogical."
The agency said a settlement deal proposed by the club was rejected because it was "insufficient".
"Accordingly, we will refer the matter to FIFA's relevant court, demand the full payment stipulated in the contract and demand compensation because of the damages caused by Al-Nassr club," the statement read.
Al-Nassr reportedly deemed Gabaski surplus to requirements after signing Colombian keeper David Ospina last month.
Gabaski, 33, became Zamalek's first-choice keeper following his impressive displays at the Nations Cup in Cameroon last January and February.
He started the tournament as Egypt's second-choice goalie but jumped into the fray in the round of 16 clash against Ivory Coast after Ahly's Mohamed El-Shennawi was injured.
His shootout heroics knocked Ivory Coast out and his penalty saves were also crucial in eliminating hosts Cameroon in the semi-final. Egypt then lost to Senegal on penalties in the final.
Gabaski then suffered a dip in form with Cairo club Zamalek, who were also infuriated by his reluctance to pen a new deal. His place was taken by Mohamed Awad as the club said he was no longer in their plans.
He had to reach a settlement agreement with Zamalek through which he was allowed to leave before the end of the season so that he could join up with Al-Nassr.
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