"Our goal is to protect him," said Riad Rafiyev, president of Sumgait, in a statement to journalists following their 4-1 victory over Gabala in the seventh round of the Misli Premier League.

The club president clarified the situation regarding Nihad Ahmadzadeh's transfer to the reserve team:

"There have been many reports in the media about Nihad. It was said that he did not want to sign a contract. However, this is completely false information. There is no such thing. Nihad has a contract with our club until 2028. The reason for his transfer to the reserve team is entirely different. Nihad and his family are well aware of the reason. I hope it is not too late and Nihad will understand his mistakes and make certain changes in his lifestyle off the pitch."

Rafiyev emphasised that the issue is related to discipline: "I have always supported all our young footballers and I will continue to do so. Unfortunately, we have been receiving very bad information about Nihad lately. Unfortunately, this information was true."