Football NewsThe GuardianUnverified source· 27 Sept 2026
Bazunu withdraws from Ireland squad over Israel fixtures
Gavin Bazunu has pulled out of Ireland's upcoming matches against Israel, citing his faith and principles.


G. Bazunu
player
Player
Gavin Bazunu
Team
Republic of Ireland
Opponent
Israel
Competition
Nations League
What happened. Gavin Bazunu announced on Instagram that he will not participate in the Republic of Ireland's upcoming Nations League fixtures against Israel. He stated that representing his country means everything to him but that his faith and principles led him to this decision.
- Bazunu expressed respect for teammates, manager, staff, and the Irish people.
- The Israel v Ireland match had been in doubt earlier in the day.
- The game is one of several Nations League fixtures scheduled for Sunday evening.
“Representing my country means everything to me. I have the utmost respect for every single one of my teammates, the manager, his staff, and the Irish people.”
— Gavin Bazunu
Bazunu's withdrawal adds to the uncertainty surrounding the match, which is still set to go ahead.
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