Off the PitchBBC SportUnverified source· 27 Aug 2026
Gay World Cup Star's Saudi Move Sparks Backlash
Spain's Esther Gonzalez faces criticism after joining Saudi club Al Qadsiah, with fans questioning her safety and motives.
E. González
player
Player
Esther Gonzalez
Club
Al Qadsiah
Age
33
Previous club
Gotham FC
What happened. Esther Gonzalez signed for Saudi Women's Premier League side Al Qadsiah, sparking backlash from fans and the LGBTQ+ community.
- Gonzalez left Gotham FC in July citing personal reasons.
- She has deleted photos with her wife and child from social media.
- Same-sex relationships are illegal in Saudi Arabia.
“due to strictly personal reasons”
— Esther Gonzalez
The move highlights ongoing tensions as footballers join Saudi clubs amid human rights concerns.
In this story
Al Qadsia
