Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has explained why he has refused to play in his country’s contentious Nations League clash with Israel.
Bazunu informed the Ireland squad that he would not participate in the match after Ireland held a meeting to formalise their position on Friday.
The 24-year-old asserted that his stance is not in opposition to Israeli or Jewish people but “against the atrocities in the region.
He wrote on Instagram: “Representing my country means everything to me. I have the utmost respect for every single one of my team mates, the manager, his staff and the Irish people.
“However I have reached a decision that I have not taken lightly. I am a man of strong faith and try my best to be a person of character and principle therefore I feel it would be wrong to participate in the upcoming fixtures against Israel.
“My decision is based purely upon my personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong. It is important to note that my stance is not in opposition of the Israeli people of the Jewish community but against the atrocities in the region.
“There are few times where you get a chance in life to stand up for something bigger and I strongly believe that this is one of them.”
Some of Bazunu’s team-mates considered joining him in a boycott as doubts surrounded Sunday's opening fixture in Debrecen, with training and a planned press conference both delayed on Saturday.
However, it was confirmed on Saturday that the match will go ahead following a vote among the squad. Former Ireland manager Brian Kerr said that 14 Ireland players voted in favour compared to eight against.
"The Football Association of Ireland confirms that the 2026-27 Uefa Nations League fixtures against Israel will be fulfilled,” a statement read.
"The Association made this decision following consultation with the Republic of Ireland players who shared different views and a majority expressed that the fixtures should be played.
"The Association respects the views of all players involved and appreciates the level of sensitivity concerning these fixtures."
