Alameddine plays in rugby league World Cup despite Eels ban
Winger Mohamed Alameddine plays in the World Cup tonight. It's his final chance. Parramatta banned him over safety concerns tied to his family.
Mohamed Alameddine was barred from Parramatta's squad this year. An alleged attack on his father by a gang called the Coconut Cartel triggered the ban.
Alameddine's family members have been repeatedly targeted. There was a failed attack at a junior rugby league game where a relative was playing.
Police confirmed Alameddine has no involvement in crime. His relatives are targeted only because of their family name.
Despite Parramatta's ban, Lebanon selected him for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Tonight is his final chance to feature in the Cedars' campaign.
He is listed as a reserve and unlikely to play. His Lebanese teammates have publicly praised him.
Halfback Alex Conti said he was glad to call Alameddine a teammate. Parramatta has yet to decide whether he will return to training in the new year.
- Parramatta Eels
- Club ban
- Lebanon Cedars
- Selection
- End of 2027
- Contract through
Why it mattersAlameddine's career is on hold through no fault of his own. Parramatta's safety concerns mean he cannot develop as a player.
AustraliaAn Australian NRL club is blocking a young Australian player's development due to his family name, not his conduct or ability. This affects how clubs manage player safety and fairness.
