Ireland fear Finn Azaz could quit football after Israel game
In a cramped dressing‑room in Debrecen, Southampton midfielder Finn Azaz delivered an impassioned speech that has left the Republic of Ireland fearing he may quit international football after the Nations League clash with Israel. The Irish Football Association believes the fallout could see the 22‑year‑old end his career with the squad after this window.
Eligibility and recent caps
Born in London, Azaz qualifies for Ireland through his Cork‑born father and for Israel through his mother and maternal grandfather, the Israeli sculptor Nehemia Azaz. Despite the option, he has repeatedly affirmed his loyalty, saying, “It was always Ireland… It’s always been a goal of mine to play for Ireland.” He has earned 15 caps since his debut in 2024 and joined Southampton from Middlesbrough in 2025.
Squad dissent and FAI response
Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad, citing personal opposition to the killing of innocent people, while the rest of the team voted in favour of playing. FAI chief executive David Courell said a “significant majority” supported fulfilling the fixture, and the match is set to go ahead.
Azaz has not commented publicly on his future, but the Irish Independent reports the FAI believes he “might end his international career after this window.” The concern follows a turbulent build‑up, with the team split over the moral implications of facing Israel.
Beyond the pitch, the story highlights the journalist who chronicled it. After two wonderful years at National World covering Liverpool and Everton daily, he now boasts commendable experience writing and covering football at the highest level, both in‑person and remotely.
He earned a 1st Class Sports Journalism MA from Liverpool John Moores University while simultaneously securing the coveted NCTJ Gold Standard qualification. Working for The Sporting News, SportBible and 90min forged a strong reputation, and his versatility extends to Archery, Cricket and Boxing coverage.
Like many multimedia sports journalists, his all‑round expertise across different disciplines underlines the modern demands of the industry.