Hallgrimsson admits his mistake after his remarks on Israel and Gaza
Irish manager Heimir Hallgrimsson admitted on Wednesday that his comments on the war in Gaza, referencing Israel and Palestine, were « not smart » on the eve of several Nations League fixtures, including two against Israel.
Comments on the war in Gaza
The previous week, Hallgrimsson had said: « We do not play with genocide, we play against genocide. We play against Israel, we do not play with Israel ». The Israeli Football Federation responded by accusing him of « stupidity, ignorance and hypocrisy ». These remarks sparked strong ripples in the football world.
Facing the controversy, the manager acknowledged that the timing of his statements was inappropriate. He emphasized that the headlines had diverted attention from the crucial match against Kosovo, scheduled as part of the Nations League.
« The headlines that were drawn from what I said have diverted attention from what may be the most important: we are playing an important match against Kosovo », he said at the pre‑match press conference, adding that « it was not smart on my part to divert attention in this way ».
Ireland decides Nations League duel with Israel despite boycott
Support from the Prime Minister and upcoming matches
Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin offered his support to Hallgrimsson, defending him against the IFA's accusations. On the side of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, Martin described the remarks as « unacceptable ».
Ireland must face Israel on neutral ground for security reasons, first in Debrecen, Hungary, on Sunday, then, seven days later, in Backa Topola, Serbia. These fixtures are part of the double confrontation scheduled between the two nations.
Furthermore, the Nations League campaign starts as early as Thursday with a trip to Kosovo. Hallgrimsson indicated that the Irish team will focus fully on this challenge, viewing the match against Kosovo as a priority.
High tension in the Nations League as Ireland set to face Israel
In summary, the Irish manager acknowledged his mistake, received government support, and is preparing to face Israel and Kosovo in a busy schedule.