Finn Azaz Considered Retirement from National Team After Upcoming Israel Match

Azaz, whose mother is Israeli and grandmother served in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), reportedly expressed his thoughts during a team meeting about the upcoming match, discussing whether the squad should forfeit, take a stance, or proceed without any statement. However, he has not publicly commented on his international career or the situation regarding the Israel match. The suggestion of retirement was mentioned as possibly being broached by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI).

In previous statements, Azaz has acknowledged his Israeli ancestry, noting that although he is eligible to represent Israel, his aspiration has always been to play for Ireland, where his father is from. In a June 2025 interview with Sunday Times Ireland, he highlighted his family's connections to Israel, particularly noting his grandmother's military service.

The Irish national team is set to play Israel on September 30 and again on October 4, with no indications of any pre-match actions related to political statements. Some experienced players on the team have suggested demonstrating a message during the games or wearing black armbands, which would be against UEFA regulations unless justified.

On September 29, FAI CEO David Courell confirmed the team's decision to go ahead with the match after a squad vote. He emphasized the importance of separating football from politics, warning against actions that could lead to chaotic consequences for the sport.

Additionally, Gavin Bazunu, Ireland's second-choice goalkeeper, announced his withdrawal from the fixture due to personal beliefs. In a statement on Instagram, he expressed his opposition to the killing of innocents but clarified that his stance is not against the Israeli people or the Jewish community. Bazunu is currently the second-choice goalkeeper for Southampton FC, behind Israel's Daniel Peretz.