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Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has challenged Uefa over its tribute to a Palestinian footballer, demanding the European football body explain how the player died. The Egyptian star questioned why Uefa failed to mention that Suleiman Al-Obeid was killed in an Israeli attack in Gaza.
The Palestinian Football Association (PFA) announced on Wednesday that Al-Obeid, 41, died in an Israeli strike in Gaza. Known as the "Palestinian Pele", he had made 24 appearances for the national team and scored twice during his international career.
Salah challenges Uefa statement
Uefa posted a tribute on X describing Al-Obeid as "a talent who gave hope to countless children, even in the darkest of times". However, the statement made no reference to how or where the footballer died.
Responding directly to Uefa's post, Salah wrote: "Can you tell us how he died, where, and why?" The Liverpool star's challenge drew praise from former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, who replied: "Well said Mo!"
Previous calls for peace
Salah, who has more than 19 million followers on X, has previously spoken out about the conflict in Gaza. In October 2023, he posted a video on Instagram calling for an end to the violence and for aid to reach Gaza.
"It is not always easy to speak in times like this. There has been too much violence and too much heartbreak and brutality," Salah said in the video. "The escalations in the recent weeks is unbearable to witness. All lives are sacred and must be protected. The massacres need to stop. Families are being torn apart."
Family man and footballer
Al-Obeid was married with two sons and three daughters, according to the PFA. His nickname "Palestinian Pele" reflected his status as one of the territory's most celebrated footballers.
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) has been approached for comment regarding Al-Obeid's death.
(PA) Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
