Tunisian footballer (1987–2023)
Nizar Issaoui (; 30 September 1987 – 13 April 2023) was a Tunisian professional footballer who played as a forward.
Club career.
Issaoui signed his first professional contract at the age of 24 in 2011, at Grombalia Sports then in the Tunisian second tier, and contributed to the clubs promotion to the top flight.
In 2012, Issaoui and Nasser Chabani, another Grombalia Sports player, were accused of hitting and insulting police officers, and of disturbing public order during a Ligue 2 match, which led to Issaoui spending a few months in prison. In 2013, he signed for Tozeur, where he scores five goals. That same year, he received interest from Club Africain, Etoile du Sahel de Sousse and CA Bizertin. In 2014, Issaoui signed for Monastir. He made eighteen appearances and scored one goal and recorded one assist for the club. However, later that year, he was sent to train with the youth academy due to disciplinary issues. In 2015, he signed for Saudi Arabian side Al-Orobah. After that, he signed for Gafsa in Tunisia, where he made seven appearances and scored one goal.
International career.
In 2014, Issaoui received interest to be called up by the Tunisia national team. However, he never played for the national team, which he claimed was due to his arrest record.
Death.
On 13 April 2023, Issaoui died after setting himself on fire in what Issaoui said was a protest against Tunisia's “police state”. During his funeral, demonstrators started throwing stones at police, who retaliated with tear gas.
Personal life.
Issaoui had four children.
References.
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